THE ROLE OF BEST PRACTICE IN DELIVERING COMPANY STRATEGY: THE CASE OF STER-KINEKOR FIAZ GOOLAM MAHOMED 851850208 Submitted in partial fulfilment of the academic requirements for the degree of Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (Westville Campus) SUPERVISOR Mr Maxwell Agabu Phiri DURBAN February 2006
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THE ROLE OF BEST PRACTICE IN
DELIVERING COMPANY STRATEGY:
THE CASE OF STER-KINEKOR
FIAZ GOOLAM MAHOMED
851850208
Submitted in partial fulfilment of the academic requirements for the degree of Master of
Business Administration (MBA) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (Westville
Campus)
SUPERVISOR
Mr Maxwell Agabu Phiri
DURBAN February 2006
DECLARATION
I declare that this is my own work. It is snbmitted in partial fulfilment of the
requirements of the degree of Master of Business Management, in the
University of KwaZulu-Natal. It has not be submitted before for any
degree of examination in
.. , ~ --- --~------------
Fiaz Goolam Mahomed 1 February 2006
As candidate supervisor I hereby approve this thesis for submission
Mr Maxwell Agabu Phiri 1 February 2006
ii
CONFIDENTIALITY CLAUSE
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
Due to the strategic importance of this research it would be appreciated if the
contents remain confidential and not circulated for a period of five
Fiaz Goolam Mohamed 1 February 2006
iii
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DEDICATION
This dissertation is dedicated to my wife, Fatima and my sons, Azhar, Sohail and
Zia for their love, understanding and support given to me throughout my studies.
Their compassion has been instrumental to my success.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I am grateful to my supervisor Mr Maxwell Agabu Phiri for his expert guidance
throughout the research process. Without his assistance, this dissertation would
not have been possible. I would also like to thank the senior management of Ster
Kinekor for their support throughout this journey, in particular, Ferdi Gazendam
(CEO SK Group) and Malusi Cele (General Manager).
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ABSTRACT
The role of best practice in delivering Company Strategy-Brand Promise
delivering "Escape through Glamour," has become an issue for the management
of Ster-Kinekor as the competitive set in the entertainment arena, increases and
becomes aggressive. This has compounded by the digital explosion which has
made home entertainment sexy and raised the benchmark of picture and sound
quality. Prices are extremely competitive and this practice is supported by the
criminal element, i.e. Piracy.
The increase in live and televised sports entertainment, television entertainment in
general and outdoor activities has contributed to the pressure in growing revenue.
Ster-Kinekor has identified the new middle income segment as an opportunity for
growth and has identified perceived value of the entertainment format as a key
barrier. This is true for the Living Standard Measures (hereafter, LSM) 8, 9 and
10 segment of the market as well.
The need to increase the perceived value of the brand and the entertainment it
offers has been identified as a key issue by senior management. This study will
highlight the concepts of branding and best practice within a review of Ster
Kinekor operational (best practice) interventions. This will be followed by a
detailed analysis and interpretation of 800 intercept interviews which will inform
the study concerning the market impact of the interventions. In addition, informal
interviews were held with various members of management.
Ster-Kinekor has introduced a number of initiatives, including a number of best
practice interventions under a project entitled "Good to Great." This interventions
are aimed at installing best practice within the business with the overall intention
of improving customer experience and thereby driving the bottom line. The study
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therefore will analyse the impact of this these initiatives as intended by Ster
Kinekor management.
In conclusion, the study will provide recommendations for consideration in order
1.7.5. Chapter Six: Conclusions and Recommendations
1.8. Conclusion
CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW
2. Introduction
2.1. Brand
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2.2. Is a Brand a Product?
2.2.1. What Does the Brand, Ster-Kinekor Offer?
2.2.2. The Essentials of Brands
2.2.3. From Brand Image to Brand Equity
2.2.4. Brand Image and Its Components
2.3. Brand Equity
2.3.1. Brand Loyalty
2.3.2. Awareness
2.3.3. Perceived Quality
2.3.4. Brand Associations
2.3.5. Other Brand Assets
2.4. Consumer-Based Brand Equity
2.5. Brand and Brand Identity
2.6. Organisational Behaviour
2.6.1. Introduction
2.6.2. The Right People
2.6.3. Culture
2.6.4. Management and Leadership
2.7. Best Practice
2.7.1. Introduction
2.7.2. How Operational Innovation Can Transform a Company
2.7.3. Toyota Production System (TPS)
2.7.4. The Power of Principles
2.8. Conclusion
CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3. Research Methodology
3.1. Introduction
3.2. Marketing Research
3.2.1. The Marketing Research Process
3.2.2. Formulate the Problem
3.2.3. Determine Research Design
3.2.4. Data Design Collection Method and Forms
3.2.4.1. Secondary Data
3.2.4.2. Primary Data
3.2.5. Sample Design and Collection Data
3.2.5.1. Population
3.2.5.2. Sampling Method
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3.2.5.3. Data Gathering
3.2.5.4. Data Processing
3.2.6. Analysis and Interpretation of the Data
3.2.6.1. Type of Data and Levels of Measurement
3.2.6.1.1. Qualitative or Quantitative Data
3.2.6.1.2. Discrete or Continuous Data
3.2.7. Data Management
3.2.7.1. Descriptive Statistics
3.2.7.2. Inferential Statistics
3.2.8. Measures Employed
3.2.9. Significance Testing
3.2.10. How are Significant Differences Calculated
3.2.11. Prepare the Research Report
3.2.12. Limitations
3.3. Conclusion
CHAPTER 4: STER-KINEKOR - A HISTORY
4. Ster-Kinekor
4.1. One Hundred Years of Cinema in South Africa
4.2. Ster-Kinekor's Glamour Positioning
4.2.1. The Origin of Glamour
4.3. Ster-Kinekor's Best Practice Strategy
4.3.1. Introduction
4.3.2. Ster-Kinekor's Intervention
4.4. Conclusion
CHAPTER 5: PRESENTATION OF RESEARCH
5. Introduction
5.1. Research Findings
5.1.1. Review of Sample
5.1.2. Movie Attendance
5.1.3. Movie Behaviour
5.1.4. Perceived Value for Money
5.1.5. Movie Experience
5.1.6. Conclusion
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CHAPTER 6: CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
6. Introduction
6.1. Conclusion
6.2. Future Research
6.2.1. Plan Outcome-Based Interviews
6.2.2. Capture the Desired Outcomes
6.2.3. Organise the Outcomes
6.2.4. Rate Outcomes for Importance and Satisfaction
6.2.4.1. Formula
6.2.5. Use the Outcomes to Jump-Start Innovation
6.3. Recommendations
6.3.1. Selling the Brand Inside the Organisation
6.4. Conclusion
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Bibliography
APPENDICES
Appendix A - Research Questionnaire
Appendix B - Strategic Brand Analysis
Appendix C - Sample Selections
Appendix D - Typical Questions
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LIST OF FIGURES
Fig. 2.1. Brand Equity
Fig. 2.2. Consumer-Based Brand Equity Pyramid
Fig. 2.3. Salience Diagram
Fig. 2.4. Proving Meaning to Staff Roles
Fig. 4.1 . Category Map
Fig. 4.2.1. Positioning Option 1: Magic
Fig. 4.2.2. Positioning Option 2: Adventure
Fig. 4.2.3. Positioning Option 3: Glamour
Fig. 4.2.4. Positioning Option 4: Indulgence
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LIST OF TABLES
Table 2.1. Virgin Brand Identity 29
Table 2.2. Theory X versus Theory Y 32
Table 2.3. Comparing Management and Leadership 37
Table 2.4. A Powerful Weapon 39
Table 3.1. Relationship Among the Stages in the Research Process 44
Table 3.2. Steps in Data Analysis 52
Table 3.3. Levels of Measurement 53
Table 3.4. Levels of Significant Difference 58
Table 6.1. Movie Attendance 168
Table 6.2. How To Focus on Outcomes 170
XIV
THE ROLE OF BEST PRACTICE IN DELIVERING
COMPANY STRATEGY:
THE CASE OF STER-KINEKOR
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1. Introduction
The impact of the brand position, namely, "Escape through Glamour" has been the
subject of extensive debate within the boardrooms of Ster-Kinekor. At issue has been
whether its brand position will increase revenue or is the industry rather driven by
other factors such as location; convenience; product or quality of films etc. This
chapter serves as an introduction to the dissertation. Following a description of the
central research issue, other related topics will be introduced, which will form the
subject of later chapters. These include the background and reason for the study, the
research methodology and an indication of the chapters to follow.
1.1. Background
Ster-Kinekor currently competes in the broader entertainment industry. Its challenges
include share of wallet and share of time for this category. In the late 1980s and early
1990s, Ster-Kinekor, together with its sector competition, enjoyed a period of
substantial growth. According to Ster-Kinekor management this peaked in 1992, in
what the industry has aptly called, "The Titanic! Year." Since this time, this sector of
the entertainment industry has been the recipient of enormous competition. In
particular, this came in the form of:
• Piracy
• Live international Sport and Entertainment
• DVDs
• A decline in the core LSM 8,9 and 10 base of customers, primarily white2
• Poor quality films
The decline in customers is not unique to South Africa, but represents an international
trend. (Bond 2005). To combat this threat, Ster-Kinekor adopted a two-pronged
strategy:
i. Deliver on Brand Promise, "Escape through Glamour"
H. Pricing Strategy to entice the middle-income primarily black consumer
segment
This dissertation will focus on the first part of Ster-Kinekor's strategy, namely its
delivery on brand-promise "Escape through Glamour," and thus will attempt to
determine whether the strategy has been successful.
I The 1992 film Titanic, broke all box-office records and was the means ofa tremendous boom for the cinema industry. Source, Ster-Kinekor.
2 Due to the emigration of many whites from South Africa following liberation in 1994.
2
1.2. Objectives of the Study
The primary objective of this study will be to measure the impact of initiatives
introduced by Ster-Kinekor in terms of their ability to:
• Positively impact on consumers value perception and attitude towards Ster
Kinekor
• Enhance consumer experience in attending a Ster-Kinekor Film Theatre
• Convey and build the Ster-Kinekor brand positioning
• Provide recommendations for improving the value perception of the brand
The above schema is intended to determine whether the brand positioning strategy
has resulted in additional customers and hence enhance profitability. Success is
defined as customer acceptance of the brand and increased frequency.
1.3. The Research Problem
Currently, Ster-Kinekor cannot differentiate itself from its competitors. Nu Metro and
Ster-Kinekor compete for locations and neither can differentiate through product. The
exception is the niche cinema chain known as Cinema Nouveau, screened by
Jameson. Ster-Kinekor pioneered the screening of Bollywood films with Kuch Kuch
Hota Hai in 1992. However, since November 2004, this competitor has been
dominant in this market.
3
However, outside of these factors, there is no differentiation. The quality of films and
convenience of location are key decision drivers when consumers make their
entertainment choice. The experience and physical environment are the tangible and
intangible components of the brand positioning exercise both of which offer a point
of differentiation and thus enhance the likelihood of repeat purchase (a key growth
factor).
The research problem statement can be described as:
Will brand position (both tangible and intangible initiatives) deliver
on the brand-promise of "Escape through Glamour" and thereby:
• Enhance the value perception held by the consumer?
• Enhance the consumer experience in attending a Ster-Kinekor
Film Theatre?
• Increase the profitability of Ster-Kinekor?
1.4. Research Methodology
The premise of this dissertation is represented by a "Case Study," which Hussey and
Hussey (1997) define as:
An extensive examination of a single instance of a phenomenon of
interest.
The activity of such a research study in such an organisation as Ster-Kinekor could
also arguably fall within the scope of "Action Research" as defined by Coghlan and
Brannick (2001):
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Action research is a research approach which focuses on simultaneous
action and research in a participative manner.
According to Coghlan and Brannick (200 l), there are four steps in an action research
cycle that need to be identified:
i. Diagnosis
11. Planning action
iii. Taking action
iv. Evaluating action
Coghlan and Brannick (200 l) further emphasise that in order to implement an action
research cycle in a planned way within a large system, four specific phases need to be
actioned:
1. Determine the need for change and the degree of choice
ii. Defme the future state after the change has taken place
iii. Assess the present in terms of the future to determine the work to be done
iv. Manage the transition state
Within this dissertation, elements from both "Action Research" and "Case Study"
methodologies will be used in the research. Because change in perceptions takes time,
and various initiatives are likely to be introduced at different times, a three phase
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tracking study was developed. This has been conducted annually, for the past three
years.
The first phase of the Ster-Kinekor commissioned research was completed prior to
the initiatives being introduced and serves as a benchmark, a measurement of how
consumers have viewed the Ster-Kinekor brand and film-going experience. Stages 2
and 3 were conducted at fixed intervals thereafter and the data gathered has been used
to measure the impact of the various initiatives implemented.
In order to achieve these objectives, primary market research interviews in the form
of intercept interviews were conducted, thus ensuring all respondents had been
exposed to the changes being measured. The sample was selected at random in order
to be representative of existing cinema patrons, but was also analysed by segment
base size in order to allow for proportional random sampling.
The questionnaire covered the following areas:
• Demographics
• Film-going frequency
• Perceived value for money of film-going experience (day of interview)
• Ster-Kinekor share of film-going
• Rating ofSter-Kinekor on a number of brand attributes
• Rating of Nu Metro on the same set of brand attributes
• Rating on each experiential "touch point" including:
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o Overall look and feel of the cinema
o Film information available
o Queuing for tickets
o Box Office staff
o Choice of films available
o Queuing for refreshments
o Refreshments vending staff
o Choice of refreshments available
o Going into the film and finding your seat
o Overall impression of film theatre
o Comfort of seats
o Picture quality
o Sound Quality
o Trailers
o Advertisements
o Toilet Facilities
• Reasons for each given rating
• Changes noted
• What changes say about Ster-Kinekor
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The questionnaire is included in Appendix E. The research methodology will be
detailed in Chapter 3.
1.5. Limitations
• The study covered 28 of the 45 Ster-Kinekor Theatre sites and excluded those
sites outside of South Africa. The sites in Zimbabwe, Namibia and Zambia are
the most difficult to include within the research cohort because of the distance
involved and were thus not included in the study.
• The quality of films might improve during the study.
• The study focused on the impact of best practice interventions in operations
only. Exploratory interviews suggested that this was the only area in which
changes were to be implemented.
• The majority of the information was based on interviews, while only limited
information was available from documentation.
• The information was provided on the basis that it remained confidential.
1.6. Value ofthe Study
The study will provide evidence to the senior management of Ster-Kinekor on its
assumption that the implementation of best practice will lead to an enhancement of
the brand and by implication an increase in customer attendances and revenue. The
management team will then be in an informed position to decide whether to continue
with their current marketing strategy or consider other alternatives. Geographic
location and product have been the key success factors of film theatres to date.
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Elements related to brand that have been the primary area of focus have largely been
brand logos and infrastructure.
The industry faces numerous challenges and technology is bound to introduce
alternative formats of entertainment. This is evidenced by the success of the Sony
Playstation 2, PSP and the soon-to-be-released X Box from Microsoft, an event
greatly anticipated in the market. This study seeks to provide senior management of
Ster-Kinekor with well-researched analysis on the current marketing strategy and
critical input into the construction of future strategies to ensure the sustainability of
the business into the future.
1. 7. Structure ofthe Study
1.7.1. Chapter 2: Literature Review
This chapter provides the theoretical framework for the study and covers a review of
literature on branding and best practice and their relevance to Ster-Kinekor.
1.7.2. Chapter 3: Research Methodology
This chapter details the research methodology. It explores the types of research, the
type of research study adopted and details of the research process proper.
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1.7.3. Chapter 4: Ster-Kinekor - A History
This chapter provides a brief review of the history and reasons for the adoption ofthe
brand position, "Escape through Glamour," and the best practice interventions
adopted and the motivation thereof.
1. 7.4. Chapter 5: Presentation of Research
Within this chapter, the output of the research is presented graphically, supported by
an interpretation of the results.
1.7.5. Chapter 6: Conclusions and Recommendations
Chapter 6 contains the conclusions and recommendations ofthe study, presented for
review by the senior management, based on the interpretation of the study conducted
by Ster-Kinekor in the context of the management dilemma.
1.8. Conclusion
This chapter briefly introduced Ster-Kinekor and the dilemma faced by its senior
management concerning brand position and differentiation within the film
entertainment industry. It concisely described the issues facing the industry and
proposed a methodology to ascertain the success of the strategy undertaken by
management to focus on delivery utilising the principles of best practice. Finally, the
structure of the study was discussed. In Chapter 3, the research methodology will be
discussed, followed by an exploration of the organisation in Chapter 4.
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CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE REVIEW
2. Introduction
The previous chapter introduced the research problem and methodology, as well as
identifying the limitations and value of the study. It was determined that the film
theatre industry has been plagued with poor quality products, the threat of piracy and
increased competition. Finally, Ster-Kinekor senior management has put in place a
strategic plan to reposition its brand and focus on the delivery of its brand promise of
"Escape through Glamour."
This chapter will form the theoretical framework of the present study. It will look at
the brand as a concept linked to Ster-Kinekor's strategy. The chapter will also
introduce organisational behaviour and the issues of people and culture, indicating
where Ster-Kinekor currently stands on these issues. Finally, through the employment
of a case study, it will introduce the concept of best practice.
2.1. Brand
According to Keller (2003:3), the American Marketing Association (AMA) defines a
brand as a, "name, term sign, symbol or a design or a combination of them, intended
to identify the goods and services of one seller or group of sellers and to differentiate
them from those of the competition." For Keller, this definition presents a limited
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view of a brand, and suggests rather that many practising managers define a brand as
one that creates a certain amount of awareness, reputation, and prominence in the
marketplace. These broader understandings support the view that Ster-Kinekor should
be considered a service industry and thereby differentiate its business on that basis.
Seat prices are often a subject of debate in the industry, consumers considering the
price of concessions as being too high. In this regard, Ster-Kinekor has adopted a
two-tier pricing strategy, based upon primary pricing (access to the cinema) and
secondary pricing (price of concessions). Both revenue streams, according to its
senior management are of equal importance to the financial viability of the chain.
2.2. Is a Brand a Product?
According to Kotler (2000), a product is anything that can be offered to a market for
attention, acquisition, use or consumption that might satisfy a need or want. Kotler
defines five levels of a product:
i. The core benefit level is the fundamental need or want that consumers satisfy
by consuming the product or service.
11. The generic product level is a basic version of the product containing only
those characteristics deemed necessary for its functioning but with no
distinguishing features. This scenario presents a stripped down, no frills
version of the product that adequately performs the product function.
iii. The expected product level is a set of attributes or characteristics that buyers
normally expect and agree to when they purchase a product.
iv. The augmented product level includes additional product attributes, benefits,
or related services that distinguish the product from its competitors.
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v. The potential product level includes all of the augmentation and
transformations that a product might ultimately undergo in the future.
According to Keller (2003:4), a brand is a product that adds other dimensions that
enable it to be differentiated from other products designed to satisfy a similar need.
These differences may be rationally and tangibly related to the product performance
of the brand, or alternatively, more symbolic, emotional and thereby intangibly
related to what the brand represents.
2.2.1. What does the brand, Ster-Kinekor offer?
The product or films shown by Ster-Kinekor are similarly available to its competitors.
Neither Ster-Kinekor, nor its competitors have any input into the quality, timing, lead
actors or any other aspect in the making of a film. The contention of the present
researcher is that Ster-Kinekor must view itself as a service industry that provides a
channel for viewing films from around the world. Its business opportunity lies in the
augmented product level and it is in this arena that one would assume that Ster
Kinekor has based its current strategy. The management focus has however been one
that focuses purely on theatre location and product. These will always remain
critical, but with the continuing growth in technology and the resultant expansion of
channels for consuming films and entertainment as a whole, they will prove
insufficient to increase market share and net profitably.
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2.2.2. The Essentials of Brands
Biel (1992) maintains that:
Brands not only furnish the environment in which I live, but they also
enrobe me, and by doing so, help define who I am. They help me define
who I am not: if I were to tell you which brands I avoid, you would learn
still more about me.
According to this definition, the South-African entertainment consumer should be
well informed by the brand Ster-Kinekor. Unfortunately, although the brand is
synonymous with the exhibition of films, it is not understood as an entertainment
option. A shift in mindset is therefore required, which would cause the consumer to
consume more of the "non-blockbuster" films. This is the basis of the organisation's
strategy.
2.2.3. From Brand Image to Brand Equity
Brands were first developed in the nineteenth century by industrialists who were
concerned with controlling product sales from retailers (Biel 1992). If, on the one
hand, brands originated initially in the field of consumer goods, on the other, brands
increased in importance. As a result, brands today play a large role in the market,
including the promotion of services in the business-to-business field.
Brand image should not be confused with brand equity. Brand equity refers to the
monetary value of a brand, and is ordinarily assessed apart from actual manufacturing
costs. In addition, brand equity can be thought of as the added cash flow achieved in
the association between a brand and the primary product or service. Finally, brand
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equity can be considered as the premium consumers are willing to pay for a branded
product or service, in contrast to another identical, but unbranded product or service
(Biel 1992).
Strong brands possess more brand equity than weaker brands. Even though most
marketers evaluate the strength of a brand by its market share, the strength of a brand
goes beyond its market share, when it is able to exhibit certain qualities such as
"charisma," ''trustfulness,'' "salience" and "richness" (Smothers 1991, as cited in Biel
1992). Hence, a brand is considered strong when it maintains a prominent position in
its particular product category, and is considered trustworthy by the consumer (Biel
1992). Further, a strong brand usually displays "shape and substance," as it evokes a
richer and broader set of associations. Finally, a brand is considered strong when its
name elicits certain images and words connected to it in the mind of the consumer,
enabling it to be readily retrieved from memory (Leavitt 1987, as cited in Biel 1992).
From this perspective, it is interesting to note that brand image drives brand equity.
While brand marketers carry the expectation of consumers willing to pay a premium
price for a strong and branded product over that of an identical and unbranded
product, it is often forgotten what really drives a consumer to buy one brand over
another. The motor that drives consumption is consumer behaviour and perceptions
of a brand, which by its very term is inherent in the concept of brand image (Biel
1992).
The Ster-Kinekor brand position "Escape through Glamour," is intended to elevate its
image within the industry and the broader entertainment market. Will however, a
brand marketing strategy based upon best practice alone suffice? Interventions to be
highlighted in Chapter 4 will look into this question and provide focus on basic
operational issues and some aspects of service, such as queues.
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2.2.4. Brand Image and Its Components
The definition of brand image is a complex matter. If the equity of a brand is related
to its added value, the image of a brand becomes an additional set of attributes which
consumers use to connect a brand to its name. These associations involve specific
perceptions and attributes of a brand, ranging from its tangibility and/or functionality
to emotions and/or appeal. The array of perceptions and attributes include, speed,
user-friendliness, excitement, and trustworthiness. (Biel 1992).
Brand image can also be subdivided into three components:
1. The image of the product/service provider
ii. The image of the user
111. The image of the product/service
According to Biel (1992) the role that each of these individual components play in
forming the image of a brand remain relative. In the case of the cigarette
manufacturer, Phillip Morris, the role "The Marlboro Man" plays in creating brand
image is at best, minimal, and yet, even though the product itself contributes to the
formation of the brand image, it is from the users of the product that most of the
brand image is formed (Biel 1992).
Personality is a characteristic inherent to the concept of brand image. Although most
consumers have little difficulty in identifying the people who might smoke Marlboro
cigarettes, not all cigarette brands possess the same characteristics, or have their
image so clearly identified. Indeed, even if they did have this quality of image, some
researchers would still feel that it was not enough. As a result, there is need to
16
develop a method for describing the personality and the character of a brand. This is
the reason why researchers have employed a variety of techniques that focus on
developing methodologies to measure brand personality (Baker 1990).
What is the image of Ster-Kinekor? This information was not available, although in
general terms the brand is synonymous with motion pictures and is considered the
market leader. Interestingly, in casual conversation most consumers consider Ster
Kinekor prices to be more expensive that that its competition, when in fact, it has
always been cheaper.
The second component concerns the image of the consumer. Ster-Kinekor has
introduced the "Classic" and "Junction" tiers. The "Classic" tier is positioned as
having snob value and is viewed as "the place to see and be seen." The "Junction"
tier is positioned as a busy meeting place. These two tiers are differentiated by price,
with the "Classic" tier sites additionally offering reserved seating. According to
senior management, "Junction" tier sites are not inferior, but continue to offer
superior picture and sound quality, high-back seating, high quality finishes and all the
trimmings usually associated with the Ster-Kinekor brand. In the review of the
research findings, these tier sites have a high value-for-money rating.
The third component of product / service should be split. Ster-Kinekor' s products, in
this case, motion pictures, are available at all its sites and are the latest from around
the world. From a service perspective, this study intends providing a perspective of
Ster-Kinekor's success or failure.
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2.3. Brand Equity
Name Awareness
Brand Loyalty
Provides Value to Customers by enhancing Customer's
• Interpretation I Processing
of information
• Confidence in the brand.
• Brand Purchase Decisions
• Use Satisfaction
Perceived Quality
BRAND EQUITY
Name symbol
Fig. 2.1. Brand Equity [Source: Aaker (1991)).
Brand Association
Other .--- Proprietary
Brand Assets
Provides Value to Firm by enhancing:
• Efficiency and Effectiveness
of Marketing Programs
• Brand loyalty
• Prices I Margins
• Brand Extensions
• Trade Leverage
• Competitive Advantage
According to Aaker et al. (1995: 730), brand equity can be defined as that set of
assets and liabilities linked to a brand that adds or subtracts from the value of a
product or service to a company and/or its customers. The assets and liabilities that
underline brand equity must be linked to the name and/or symbol of the brand. The
assets and liabilities upon which the brand is based will differ from context to
context. However, they can be grouped into five essential categories:
i. Brand Loyalty
18
ii. Name awareness
iii. Perceived Quality
iv. Brand Associations in addition to perceived quality
v. Other propriety brand assets: patents, trademarks, channel relationships, etc.
The concept of brand equity is summarised in Fig. 1, which shows the five categories
of assets that form the basis of brand equity. Fig. I also shows that brand equity
creates value for both the customer and the firm. Aaker et al. (1995: 730), go further
to suggest that a brand can be appraised by addressing and obtaining answers to the
five categories listed above.
2.3.1. Brand Loyalty
What are the brand loyalty levels by segment? Are customers satisfied? What do the
exit interviews suggest? Why are customers leaving? What is causing dissatisfaction?
What do customers say are their problems with buying or using the brand? What is
the market share? What do sales trends indicate?
Ster-Kinekor determines that good housekeeping, convenience (location) and the
quality of the motion picture itself are the main reasons behind receiving a positive
rating for the film theatre. This is not ideal, as Ster-Kinekor has no control over the
quality and quantity of the motion pictures produced by Hollywood, and competitor
aggressiveness in this sector of the entertainment business has resulted in the loss of
key sites or the acquiring of new sites at a higher than normal price. Further, the
loyalty membership scheme, "The Ster-Kinekor Movie Club" has to date become
more of a discount club, than that of a loyalty club.
19
According to Cinemark, Ster-Kinekor enjoys a two-thirds market share; this is
primarily due to its overall market "footprint" rather than distinguishable loyalty to
the brand. This study will help determine whether the interventions introduced by
senior management have had the desired impact of introducing new reasons for
positive ratings.
2.3.2. Awareness
How valuable an asset is brand awareness in this market? What is the brand
awareness level of Ster-Kinekor, as compared to that of its competitors? What are the
present market trends? Is the brand being positively considered? Is brand awareness a
problem? What can be done to increase brand awareness?
According to comparative market analysis, Ster-Kinekor enjoys a high level of
awareness in the market and is synonymous with motion pictures in South Africa.
This however, does not necessarily translate into loyalty. Customers are motivated by
the quality of the films shown, rather than by the Ster-Kinekor chain as a service
provider. This is evidenced in the research findings.
2.3.3. Perceived Quality
What drives perceived quality? What is important to the customer? What signals
quality? Is perceived quality valued, or is the market moving towards that of a
commodity business? Are price margins being eroded? If so, can the movement be
slowed down or reversed? How do Ster-Kinekor's competitors measure up with
respect to perceived quality? Are there any changes? In blind use tests, what is the
brand name worth? Has it changed over time?
20
Ster-Kinekor has embarked on a strategy to improve quality in all areas, including
infrastructure, service, people, concessions, picture and sound presentation. Profit
margins however have continued to decrease due it its pricing strategy. This will be
resolved by increased volume, primarily from the LSM 5, 6, 7 and 8 sectors. The
standards set are based on intellectual property and that experience that resides within
Ster-Kinekor as a company. There is no evidence to suggest that Ster-Kinekor has
undertaken customer research or even intends to determine what its customers
consider to be it mark of quality. In Chapter 6, this question is addressed with
recommendations made towards future research approaches.
2.3.4. Brand Associations
What mental image, if any does the brand stimulate? Does the image have a
competitive advantage? Does it have a slogan or symbol that forms a differentiating
asset? How is the brand positioned among its competitors? How is each position
evaluated with respect to its perceived value/relevance to its customers? How
protected/vulnerable is it in relation to its competitors?
The Ster-Kinekor logo has been updated. According to management, research
indicated that the logo evoked the perception of an old man. The new logo was
therefore designed to give the perception of modem chic. The impact of this change
has yet to be measured as the rollout of the new logo is expected to take three years.
No additional information is at present available.
2.3.5. Other Brand Assets
Are sustainable competitive advantages attached to the brand name that is not
reflected in the other four equity dimensions? Is there a patent or trademark that is
21
important? Are there channel relationships that provide barriers to healthy
competition?
Once again, this could not be determined, as no information is presently available.
However, one can ascertain that this has been attempted with strategic business
relationships having been secured with Discovery and more recently with E-Bucks.
On the area of customer service, Ster-Kinekor has pioneered the concept of self
service terminals and this is a clear service differentiator from that of its competitors.
According to Aaker (2002:40) brand identity, is one of four pillars, along with brand
architecture, brand-building programmes and organisational structure and processes
that makes for a strong brand. The concept and relevance of brand identity will be
explored in Chapter 2.
22
2.4. Consumer Based Brand Equity
Fig. 2.2. Consumer-Based Brand Equity Pyramid
There are several building blocks within a Consumer Based Brand Equity (CBBE)
Pyramid. These are:
i. At the base of pyramid, brand salience;
ii. On the left of the pyramid, brand performance and imagery;
23
iii. On the right of the pyramid, brand judgments and feelings;
iv. At the pinnacle of the pyramid, brand resonance.
Brand salience includes consumers' identity, brand awareness and performance. A
brand's functional characteristics include reliability, service and support, style and
design and price. Brand imagery includes a brand's user profile, personality and
values, history, heritage and experiences; judgments and feelings. A brand's
credibility is its consideration and superiority, resonance, consumers' behavioural
loyalty, attitudinal attachment, sense of community (association with other users)
and active engagement (willingness to be a spokesperson for the brand). For a
functional brand, resonance might be driven more by judgment and performance (left
side); for an image-driven brand, it may be propelled more by feelings and imagery
(right side); for another brand, by a combination of performance (left side) and
feelings (right side).
Interpretation of the Consumer Based Brand Equity (CBBE) model indicates that
Ster-Kinekor's resonance would be better driven by feeling and imagery. The
organisations brand positioning of "Escape through Glamour" suggests that this
thinking is aligned. According to senior management, high levels of customer
awareness have been achieved in the marketplace. The researcher however posits the
opinion that motion pictures such as "Harry Potter" or "James Bond" are better
examples of brands that drive behaviour. Blockbusters will and should perform better
at the box office than good or mediocre motion pictures, however, experience should
also have an impact. This should result in the de-risking of this entertainment format
and thereby entice consumers to "escape," even through good to mediocre motion
pictures.
24
Brand salience arguably acts as a predictor of consumer behaviour. In a study
conducted by Gruber (1969), top-of-mind brand awareness parallels the amount of
consumption of a specific brand in the marketplace. Top-of-mind brand awareness
refers to the recognition by consumers of a certain brand over other brands in the
same product category. In a similar study by Axelrod (1968), top-of-brand awareness
was found to be a "sensitive and stable predictor of purchase ... " behaviour among
consumers (Sutherland and Galloway 1981 :27). Accordingly, an in increase in
saliency as measured by top-of-brand awareness results in a comparative increase in
the sales of a particular brand, although, due to a lack of empirical evidence derived
from controlled studies, this relationship exists primarily as an association rather than
as a causal inference. Even though the need for further research remains, " ... the
primary direction of causal flow appears to be from media prominence, to salience"
(Sutherland and Galloway, 1981 :27).
Sutherland and Galloway (1981) confirm that agenda-setting research suggests that
salience in the media results in a measurable level of salience in the public agenda.
Further, they note advertising research suggests that salience in the public mind
directly relates to behavioural outcomes, i.e., consumer purchase, as diagrammed
below:
PROMINENCE INTHB MEDIa
SAUBNCEIN ----- TIiSPUflUC----
MIND
BEHAVI.ORAL OUTCOM.ES
[E.G., PURCHASE]
(li"1Jrder'laJrom .. n~·.r.ffl"ZR.l:
re$~auk)
fElJrd.trzf:e /Jom f(}IN)f'·mi~(f(J.nd
fit# brrm«-:ttl.ot6tl;nen rue.g~l
Fig. 2.3. [Source: Sutherland and Galloway (1981: 27)].
25
However, Sutherland also recognises other important influences that can account for
a given product's market position, such as the length of representation of a product in
the market. In other words, the length of time that a product remains in the market
directly affects the top-of-mind awareness of that product in the public mind.
Ultimately, salience of a particular brand or product results in its perceived popularity
in the public mind.
Ster-Kinekor does not self-promote or market its brand well or indeed, often.
Marketing and promotions generally promote the motion pictures, whereas, Ster
Kinekor as a brand is often lost in the marketing "clutter." According to Cinemark,
Ster-Kinekor enjoys a two-thirds share of the South African market where its brand
name is synonymous with motion pictures. Nonetheless, as with its competitors in the
film entertainment sector, it has experienced a decline in customer attendance (See
Chapter 1). Brand salience, by implication, cannot be viewed in isolation to market
factors including, competitors, new and poor quality products and alternative
entertainment formats.
2.5. Brand and Brand Identity
A strong brand should possess a rich and clear brand identity, in other words, a set of
associations, which a brand strategist would seek to create or maintain. In contrast to
brand image, a brand identity is aspirational, which in time may imply that the image
will need to be changed or augmented. In a fundamental sense, the brand identity
represents what the organisation wants the brand to stand for.
Those involved in the brand (that is, the brand team and their partners) should be able
to articulate and take care of brand identity. If either element is lacking, the brand is
unlikely to achieve its potential and will be vulnerable to market forces emphasising
undifferentiated products and price competition.
26
Current research findings do not compare the Ster-Kinekor experience to any of its
competitors, although there comparative research has been conducted with respect to
other entertainment types. The view of the current researcher is that there remains
insufficient differentiation in the brand, although current senior management
strategies attempt to provide such.
To be effective, brand identity needs to resonate with its customers, representing what
the company can and will do over time, while differentiating itself as a brand from its
competitors. Strategic brand analysis helps management understand the customer, its
competition and the brand itself, including the company behind the brand. The
customer analysis must go beyond what the customers says, to what lies beneath what
they do. Creative qualitative research is often useful towards this end. Another
challenge is to develop a segmentation scheme that can drive this strategy. To do this
effectively, the brand manager must discover which segmentation variables have real
leverage and understand the size and dynamic of each segment.
Another important aspect in building an effective marketing strategy is that of
competitor analysis. This seeks to examine current and potential competition in order
to make sure that brand strategy will sufficiently differentiate the brand and that
communication programmes will break away from the clutter in a meaningful way.
Self-analysis methodologies identify whether a brand has sufficient resource
capability, and the will to deliver it. This analysis seeks to uncover not only the
brands heritage and current image but also the strengths, limitations, strategies and
values of the company that is creating the brand. Ultimately, a successful brand
strategy needs to capture the soul of the brand, and this soul resides in the company.
Brand identity is a set of brand associations that an organisation aspires to create and
maintain. These associations imply a promise to the customer from the company or
27
organisation. Because brand identity is used to drive brand-building efforts, it should
have depth, richness and meaning, and not be merely an advertising tagline or even a
brand positioning statement.
When realised, brand identity should help to establish a relationship between the
brand and the customer by generating a value proposition potential involving
functional, emotional or self-expressive benefits or by providing credibility for
endorsed brands. Table 1 illustrates Virgin's brand identity and its constructs (Aaker
2000).
The present study examines this theory relative to Ster-Kinekor's view that the
operational best practice interventions are sufficient to create a platform for increased
loyalty and by implication increased attendances and profit. It will examine the
company's brand associations and evaluate them in relation to the brand promise of
"Escape through Glamour."
Ster-Kinekor could not produce a brand identity table although they have determined
their brand position. The brand identity-planning model is illustrated in fig. 2.
In Table 2, we see Virgin's brand identity. Ster-Kinekor has not clarified their brand
identity, indeed no documentation could be found to suggest that one exists or that it
has been communicated to the company.
28
1 1. Brand Essence 11 Iconoclasm 11 1
2. Core Identity Service Quality Consistent best of category quality delivered with humour and flair.
I
Innovation
I
First with truly innovative, value added features and services
I Fun and Entertainment
I A fun and entertaining company
I
Value for Money Provide value in all its offerings, never just the high prices option
3. Extended identity I Underdog
I
Fighting the established bureaucratic firm with new creative offerings
Personality Flaunts the rules. Sense of humour, even outrageous. Underdog, willing to attack the establishment. Competent, always does a good job, high standards.
I I
Virgin symbols Branson and his perceived lifestyle. Virgin blimp. Virgin script logo.
Value Proposition Functional Benefits A value offering with quality, plus innovative extras delivered with flair and humour.
I I
Emotional Benefits Pride in linking to the underdog with an attitude. Fun with good times.
I I
Self-expressive Willingness to go against benefits the establishment, to be a
Ster-Kinekor's strategic outlook however seems sound, in that it provides for
differentiation by offering on its brand promise of an "Escape through Glamour." A
watershed moment is perhaps required, as it recognises the need to shift its thinking
from merely location and product (films).
2.6. Organisational Behaviour
2.6.1. Introduction
The successful implementation and sustaining of strategies crafted in the boardroom
are dependent on various factors. These include having the right people (Collins
2001), the appropriate leadership (Senior 2002), and the right culture. Other areas of
readiness required are training, communication strategy, change management
program and adequate resources. This section will compare Ster-Kinekor's readiness
in relation to the theoretical framework.
2.6.2. The Right People
According to Greenberg and Baron (1999:4), an organisation is a "structured social
system consisting of groups of individuals working together to meet some agreed-on
objectives." Greenberg further asserts that in order to make these assumptions,
organisations can only be made more productive if they also improve the quality of
employee working conditions. This remains the best approach to studying behaviour
in organisations that are dynamic and ever changing.
The successful implementation and sustenance of any strategy relies on the quality of
the people driving it. Jim Collins (2001:13) proposes that organisations should ensure
30
they have the right people on the bus, and in the right seats. When this is in place,
anything is possible. Collins therefore states:
First who ... then what. We expected that good-to-great leaders would begin by setting a new vision and strategy. We found instead that they first got the right people on the bus, the wrong people off the bus, and the right people in the right seats - and then figured out where to drive it. The old adage "People are your most important asset" turns out to be wrong. People are not the most important asset. The right people are.
This suggestion is evidenced when measured against Ster-Kinekor and its marketing
strategy. In any service organisation such as Ster-Kinekor, the decisive moment or
measure of success as to customer service is when customers come into contact with
its staff during the purchasing of a ticket or concessions; in entering the film theatre;
indirectly engaging with the projectionist responsible for the picture and sound
quality; and finally when exiting the film theatre.
The organisation faces numerous challenges in changing the culture of customer
service or offering "An Escape through Glamour." Ster-Kinekor staff is spread
geographically and consist in the main of entry-level employees. In addition, there is
a high staff turnover, mainly due to the nature of the staff employed, e.g. many are
students and consider this temporary employment and not a career choice or path.
Employees thus work flexible hours, determined by business levels. As a result, a
succession of poor quality motion pictures will result in fewer hours worked and
therefore a lower wage. However, a change in culture begins at boardroom level. The
approach towards staff by management will determine the extent to which vision is
turned into reality.
Greenberg and Baron (2000) suggests that the traditional approach (Theory X)
orientation toward people is far more negativistic than the more contemporary Theory
31
Y approach that is widely accepted today. Some of the key differences are
highlighted in Fig. 2.4.
Theory X
I I TheoryY
(traditional approach) ( modern approach)
Distrusting Orientation toward people Accepting, promoting
betterment of human
resources
I Basically lazy
I Assumptions about people Need to achieve and be
responsible
1 Low (disinterested) 11 Interest in working 11 High ( very interested)
Work when pushed Conditions under which Work when appropriately
people will work hard trained and recognised
Table 2.2. Theory X versus Theory Y [Source: Adapted from: Greenberg and Baron
(1999:13)].
2.6.3. Culture
Barbara Senior (2002:122-123) uses French and Bell's (1990) metaphor of an iceberg
to express the two contrasting aspects of organisational life. Firstly, there is that
which is above the water, namely the formal organisation and the more easy-to-see
aspects of the organisation. These include the goals, strategy, structure, systems and
procedures, products and services, financial resources and management. Secondly,
that which is under the water, namely the informal organisation, consists of values,
attitudes and beliefs, leadership style and behaviour, organisational culture and norms
of behaviour, power, politics and conflicts and informal groupings. This metaphor not
only points to the overt and covert aspects of the organisation, but also draws
32
1
attention to the proposition that the informal systems, although being hidden, form
the greater part of the organisational iceberg.
The concept of culture embraces much of the hidden part of the iceberg, and plays a
significant role in either assisting or hindering the process of change. There are many
definitions of culture. Kroeber and Kluckhorn (1952: 181, cited in Senior 2002) claim
to have examined over one hundred. Their summary definition of culture is:
Culture consists in patterned ways of thinking, feeling and reacting, acquired and transmitted mainly by symbols, constituting the distinctive achievements of human groups, including their embodiment in artefacts; the essential core of culture consist of traditional (Le. historically derived and selected) ideas and especially their attracted values (Kroeber and Kluckhorn 1952: 181, cited in Senior 2002).
Another often-quoted definition is that of Hofstede:
Culture is the collective programming of the human mind that distinguishes the members of one human group to that of another. Culture is this sense is a system of collectively help values (Hofstede 1981 :24, cited in Senior 2002).
The present researcher's interpretation of Ster-Kinekor's culture as determined by
interviews and supported by a cultural audit is that staff is aware of the mission and
vision of Ster-Kinekor and has confidence in the company leadership. Areas that
require work are that of communication, personnel services and physical
environment. The survey however was done prior to the repositioning; therefore, one
is unable to determine whether the views identified are valid in the current climate.
Ster-Kinekor has however realised the importance of customer-focused criticism and
that if they are to succeed as a business, cultural change must take place. One of the
changes introduced is the self-service kiosk for the purchase of tickets. In an
interview with the management of Ster-Kinekor, the concept of the inverted pyramid
33
structure was discussed, whereby management is viewed as providing critical support
to the frontline staff that is responsible for turning vision into reality.
The focus is illustrated in the Fig 2.4 below. It is taken from documentation supplied
by Ster-Kinekor. The change of attitude is aimed to provide added value for
customers, both internally and externally, and by so-doing enhance the image and
reputation of the organisation, resulting in its growth. The principle applies to
employees as well as support for the frontline staff. The focus is on customer service
Creating and agenda Planning and budgeting - Establishing direction -establishing detailed steps developing a vision, often and timetables for in the distant future and achieving needed results, strategies for producing and then allocating the the necessary changes resources to make it needed to achieve that happen. vision.
Developing a human Organising and Staffing - Aligning People -network for establishing some communicating the achieving the agenda structure for direction by words and
accomplishing planned deeds to all those whose requirements, staffing that cooperation may be structure with individuals, needed so as to influence delegating responsibility the creation of teams and and authority for carrying coalitions that understand out that plan, providing the vision and strategies policies and procedures to and accept their validity. help guide people, and creating methods or systems to monitor implementation.
Execution Controlling and Problem Motivating and Inspiring Solving - monitoring - energising people to results vs. plan in some overcome major political, detail, identifying bureaucratic and resource deviations and then barriers to change by planning and organising to satisfying very basic, but solve these problems. often unfulfilled human
needs.
I Outcomes
I Produces a degree of Produces change, often to predictability and order, a dramatic degree, and has and has potential of the potential of producing
36
consistently producing extremely useful change key results expected by (e.g. new products that various stakeholders (e.g. customers want, new for customers, always approaches to labour being on time; for relations that help make stockholders, being on the firm more budget) competitive)
Table 2.3. Comparing Management and Leadership [Source: Adapted from
Senior (2002)].
The present researcher is of the opinion that at Ster-Kinekor, the process of moving
from a pure management culture to one of leadership has begun. The change
however, is not at a level where is contributes to a change in culture for the entire
organisation. The focus appears at the customer service, and is not top-of-mind,
hence, functional objectives are sometimes placed ahead of organisational objectives.
Recommendations in this regard will be addressed in Chapter 6.
2.7. Best Practice
2.7.1. Introduction
In this study, the concept of best practice is limited to the operational interventions
that Ster-Kinekor has introduced. In conclusion, this chapter will refer to practices
employed by Progressive Insurance and Toyota. In this context, best practice can be
defined as operational innovation
37
2.7.2. How Operational Innovation can transform a Company
According to Michael Hammer's article "Deep Change" in the Harvard Business
Review (2004), Progressive Insurance, a vehicle insurance company based in
Maysfield Village, Ohio, USA, had approximately US$1.3 billion in sales 1991. By
2002 this figure had grown to US$9.5 billion. The article went on to state that
although the company was not well positioned for high growth, it was a mature
industry. It did not expand or globalise; or grow through acquisitions or clever
marketing schemes. In fact, it did little advertising. Nor did it reduce prices or
sacrifice margins.
The secret of Progressive's success was simple: it out-operated its competition. By
offering lower prices and better service, it simply took customers away from its
rivals. This was made possible through operational innovation. Operational
innovation must not be confused with operational improvement or operational
excellence. The latter terms refers to improving current processes or adopting a
culture of continuous improvement. Operational innovation refers to new ways of
operating. It is a step change: It moves the company to an entirely new level.
Other companies that have utilised this approach are Wal-Mart and Toyota. Toyota's
Toyota Production System (TPS) will be discussed later in this chapter. An example
of operational innovation is Wal-Mart's "cross docking," in which goods trucked to a
distribution centre are immediacy transferred to trucks bound for stores, without
being placed into storage. This has led to lower costs and together with other
contributing innovations, lower prices.
Company executives who understand how operational innovation works and the
cultural and organisational barriers that prevent it from happening can add to their
strategic arsenal one the most powerful competitive weapons in existence. This
38
statement and the evidence of increased customers is the essence of this study. In
Chapter 4 Ster-Kinekor operational innovations strategy will be discussed in detail.
I STRATEGIC BENEFITS I Higher customer retention I Greater market share
Ability to execute strategies
Ability to enter new markets
MARKETPLACE BENEFITS Lower prices
Greater customer satisfaction
Differentiated Offerings
Stronger Customer relationships
Greater Agility
OPERATIONAL BENEFITS Lower direct costs
Better use of assets
Faster cycle time
Increased Accuracy
Greater customisation or precision
More added value
Simplified Processes
Table 2.4. A Powerful Weapon [Source: Adapted from Hammer 2004)
39
Table 2.4 above, illustrates the strategic benefits accrued to an organisation that
adopts and has the ability to implement a culture of operational innovation.
2.7.3. Toyota Production System (Tps)
According to Steven Spear:
Toyota is one of the world's most stories companies, drawing the attention of journalists, researchers, and executives seeking to benchmark its famous production system. Toyota has repeatedly outperformed its competitors in quality, reliability, productivity, cost reduction, sales, market share growth and market capitalisation.
The company's success does not lie only in its ability to constantly improve its operational processes through TPS, a system of nested experiments, The reason why most companies fail to successfully implement TPS is that Toyota is an organisation tin which employees and managers at all levels in all functions are able to live these principles and teach others to apply them (Harvard Business Review, May 2004)
2.7.4. The Power of Principles
Further, Spear points out:
The insight that Toyota applies underlying principles rather than specific tools and processed explains why the company continues to out perform its competitors. Many companies have tried to imitate Toyotas tools as opposed to its principles; as a result, many have ended up with rigid, inflexible production systems that worked well in the short term but did not stand the test of time.
Recognising that TPS is about applying principles rather that tools enables companies that in no way resemble Toyota to tap into its sources of success. Alcoa, a company whose large-scale processes of smelting, refining etc, beat little resemblance to Toyota's discrete- parts fabrication
40
and assembly operations has based its A1coa Business System (ABS) on TPS rules. A1coa claims to that ABS saved the company $1.1 billion from 1998 to 2000, while improving safety, productivity and quality (Spear 2004:80).
New employees at Toyota are oriented and integrated into the Toyota culture prior to
"commencing" the jobs for which they were employed. Listed below are the lessons
learnt by a new employee in this process:
• There is no substitute for direct observation
• Proposed changes should always be structured as experiments.
• Workers and managers should experiment as frequently as possible
• Managers should coach, not fix.
The experience of both Toyota and Progressive Insurance suggest that Ster-Kinekor
can enhance its brand image, reputation and profitability by adopting best practice
and operational innovation. Is there however a direct correlation? Will this translate
into greater profitability for Ster-Kinekor? In respect to Progressive Insurance, the
key issue is operational innovation and not continuous improvement; a step change is
required. With the expectation of the self-service terminals, no evidence could be
found to support Ster-Kinekor's case. Reviewing Ster-Kinekor's business processes/
the view of the present researcher is that the processes have been recorded but the
principles have not been applied to all levels of the organisation. There is a lack of
synergy between functions and an inconsistent application of the processes. The
processes are being continually reviewed, but there is little to suggest that a step
change is imminent. The thinking in the organisation appears however to be is in this
direction.
I No permission to publish obtained.
41
2.S. Conclusion
This chapter has reviewed the theoretical framework that has informed this study.
Looking at the Ster-Kinekor through this framework reveals an intention to create a
differentiated service that resonates with its consumers. In interrogating the
organisation, most interventions over the past eighteen months have been at the
expected product level. From a people perspective, there seems to be a strong drive to
build powerful teams2 and upon leadership. According to management, while only
the self-service terminals have been launched, a platform is being created to form a
step change from an operational perspective to that of a differentiated experience.
This is being made possible primarily through the application and internal
development of dedicated technology and systems.
2 Obtained from, Operational Strategy Document. Consent to append this document was not forthcoming.
42
CHAPTER 3
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3. Research Methodology
3.1. Introduction
In Chapter 2, the theoretical framework for the study was discussed. The framework
highlighted the potential presented to strong brands. These included the potential to
charge a premium price, increase brand equity, produce high levels of brand
awareness, all of which translates into increased consumption. It further highlighted
the need for the right people and ability of organisations to manage the culture change
required to ensure successful brand implementation. This chapter will focus on
research methodology. The concept of marketing research will be discussed and its
application to the study. Both primary and secondary research was conducted to assist
the interpretation of the results. Primary research included interviews with Ster
Kinekor management and 800 intercept interviews.
3.2. Marketing Research
The official definition of marketing research by the American Marketing Association
states:
43
Marketing research is the function that links an organisation to its market through information. This information is used to identify and define marketing opportunities and problems, generate, refine and evaluate marketing actions; monitor marketing performance; and improve the understanding of marketing as a process. Marketing research specifies the information required to address these issues; designs the method for collecting information; manages and implements the data collection process; interprets the results; and communicates the findings and their implications (Aaker et al. 2000).
3.2.1. The Marketing Research Process
All research problems require their own special emphasis and approaches. Because
every marketing research problem is unique in some ways, the research procedure is
custom tailored. Nevertheless, there is a sequence of steps, called the research process
(see Fig. 3.1 below) that can be followed when designing the research project
(Churchill 1995).
Step 1 Formulate Problem I Step 2 Determine Research Design I Step 3 11 Design Data Collection Method and Forms
Step 4 Design Sample and Collect Data I Step 5 Analyse and Interpret the Data I Step 6 Prepare the Research Report I
Table 3.1. Relationship among the Stages in the Research Process [Source:
Adapted from Churchill (1999:64)].
44
3.2.2. Formulate the Problem
The process begins at its most general level with an analysis of the management
dilemma. This is usually the symptom of an actual problem. (Cooper et al. 2003 :66).
Only when the problem is carefully and precisely defined can research be designed to
provide pertinent information (Churchill 1999:63-64). The problem or opportunity
should therefore be carefully and accurately crafted to ensure the desired outcome is
obtained. Failure to do so may result in a missed opportunity or the management
dilemma not being resolved.
Each project should have one or more specific research objectives, until these are
correctly and explicitly ascertained, and the next step in the process should not be
undertaken (Churchill 1999: 64).
The problem statement or management dilemma identified for this study is as
follows:
Will brand position (both tangible and intangible initiatives)
deliver on the brand-promise of "Escape through Glamour"
and thereby:
• Enhance the value perception held by the consumer
• Enhance the consumer experience in attending a Ster
Kinekor Film Theatre
• Increase the profitability of Ster-Kinekor
45
The central objective of this study is to determine whether the role of best practice in
delivering company strategy, namely, brand promise delivering "Escape through
Glamour" has produced in terms of Ster-Kinekor's ability to:
• Positively impact on consumers value perception and attitude towards Ster
Kinekor
• Enhance the consumer experience of going to movies at Ster-Kinekor.
• Convey and build the Ster-Kinekor brand positioning
• Provide recommendations for improving the value perception of the brand.
The above is intended to interpret whether the brand positioning strategy has resulted
in additional customers and hence increase overall profitability for the company.
The symptoms of the dilemma, as highlighted by senior management are:
i. An overall, international trend of declining attendances
ii. A stagnant pool of traditional (white; LSM 8;9;10) customers
iii. A general decline in the quality of product
iv. Piracy and technological redefinition of home-entertainment
v. Ever-widening entertainment options
46
These symptoms suggest that the film industry has not helped itself by reinventing
the industry. The tried and tested formula, highlighted by Ster-Kinekor of location
and product has been the bedrock of their previous success.
3.2.3. Determine Research Design
The source of information for a study and the research design go hand in hand. They both depend on how much is known about the problem. If relatively little is known about the problem then exploratory research is warranted. Exploratory research may involve reviewing published data, interviewing knowledgeable people, conducting focus groups or investigating trade literature. If the problem is precisely and unambiguously formulated, descriptive of casual research is needed. In these research designs, data collection is not flexible but is rigidly specified, with respect to both the data collection forms and the sample design (Churchill 1995).
In terms of this study, primary research was conducted in the form of interviews with
senior management and 800 intercept interviews. Secondary research consisted in the
acquisition of a theoretical context through the review of a number of books, journals
and articles.
3.2.4. Data Design Collection Method and Forms
Information required to solve a problem or dilemma does not always exist in an
organisation. Relevant data will often be required, obtained through primary and
secondary research. The information obtained from such research is intended to be
indicative of the success. A study of the questionnaire suggests this will serve to track
progress rather than provide new input. Surprisingly, no information could be found
on the industry that could be considered as a benchmark.
47
3.2.4.1. Secondary Data
Secondary data collection concerned data collected and recorded by someone other
than the user (Aaker, et. al. 1995:114). It may provide enough information to
actually resolve the problem and can be a source of new ideas that can be explored
through primary research (Aaker, et. al. 1995:114).
Information on branding was easily available; however it proved difficult to find
specific theory related to best practice in the film theatre/cinema entertainment
business environment. Ster-Kinekor provided most of the information upon request,
on the understanding that it would not be published.
3.2.4.2. Primary Data
This is defined by Aaker, et. al. (2001 :76) as: "Primary data are collected especially
to address a specific research objective."
A structured questionnaire) conducted by React Surveys was used to interview 800
customers at thirty-three of Ster-Kinekor's South African sites to determine the
impact of management interventions and by implication their success. Additionally,
interviews were conducted with the management of Ster-Kinekor on the
understanding that they were informal and remained confidential.
3.2.5. Sample Design and Collection Data
In designing the sample the researcher must specify, among other things, (1) the sampling frame, (2) the sample selection process, and (3) the size
I Refer Appendix A
48
of the sample. The sampling frame is the list of the population elements from which the sample will be drawn (Churchill 1995).
3.2.5.1. Population
According to Cooper and Schindler (2003: 179) a "population is the total collection of
elements about which we wish to make some inferences." The population for this
study consisted of all current Ster-Kinekor customers. This has been traditionally,
white; LSM 8, 9, and 10.
3.2.5.2. Sampling Method
According to Arsham's statistics website:
Sampling: is the selection of part of an aggregate or totality known as population on the basis of which a decision concerning the population is made. The following are the advantages and/or necessities for sampling in statistical decision making.
Cost: is one of the main arguments in favour of sampling, because often a sample can furnish data of sufficient accuracy and at much lower cost than a census.
Accuracy: Much better control over data collection errors is possible with sampling than with a census, because a sample is a smaller-scale undertaking.
Timeliness: Another advantage of a sample over a census is that the sample produces information faster. This is important for timely decision making.
Amount of Information: More detailed information can be obtained from a sample survey than from a census, because it take less time, is less costly, and allows us to take more care in the data processing stage.
49
Destructive Tests: When a test involves the destruction of an item under study, sampling must be used. Statistical sampling determination can be used to find the optimal sample size within an acceptable cost.
A sample size of 800 customers spread across the majority of Ster-Kinekor's film
theatres ensured the full brand across the Classic, Junction and Nouveau sites and
pricing portfolio including Half-price Tuesday and Vitality Benefit was covered.
Elements such as weekend mix of customers; Half-price Tuesdays; children; and
vitality and pensioner discounts were also considered in obtaining the sample.
30 customers per site were interviewed. The interviews spanned a two week period;
one during school holidays, and one out, across three time slots. This ensured that the
research would be sufficiently representative of the film theatre population and
consumer behaviour.2
3.2.5.3. Data Gathering
The gathering of research data ranges from:
... a simple observation at one location to a grandiose survey of multinational corporations at sites in different parts of the world. The method selected will largely determine how the data are collected. Questionnaires, standardised tests, observational forms, laboratory notes, and instrument calibration logs are among the devices used to record raw data (Cooper and Schindler 2003: 179).
Intercept interviews were conducted based on the questionnaire reproduced in
Appendix A.
2 Refer to Tables 3.2 and 3.3.
50
3.2.5.4. Data Processing
The data obtained was processed by means of the ESPRIT programme, with the
assistance of the research company, Yellowwood Brand Architects.3 The data was
coded, edited and presented by means of tables and speaker notes.
3.2.6. Analysis and Interpretation of the Data
Although researchers may amass reams of paper, information of value is that which
can be analysed and interpreted in the light of the management dilemma or problem
3 Supplied by Ster-Kinekor. Notes from Brand Positioning Workshop.
64
Fig. 4.2.1. Positioning Option 1: Magic
Specific What makes me different? What makes me best?
Qualifications • Superior sound and picture • A multi-dimensional
quality experience - total
• Multi-sensory experience emersion
beyond product • The collection of realms I
• Choice and variety (which can take you to
include genres and • My ability to capture your
channels) imagination
• Safe and secure
environment
Relationship Conjuror
• SK takes you to places you have never imagined.
• SK transports you to across space and time into lands know
and unknown.
Personality • Mythical
• Fantastical
• Mysterious
• Surprising
• Creative
• Imaginative
For example: Gandalf, Batman, The Mask
Proposition Living imagination
65
Fig. 4.2.2. Positioning Option 2: Adventure
Specific What makes me different? What makes me best?
Qualifications • Superior sound and picture • A multi-dimensional
quality experience - a voyage
• Multi-sensory experience beyond the here and now
beyond product • The collection of worlds
• Choice and variety (which and cultures I can show
include gemes and you and teach you about
channels) • A new experience /
• Safe and secure memory without having to
environment leave your seat
Relationship Tour guide
• SK will take you on a voyage of discovery; showing you
worlds, people and places reaching as far as the imagination.
• SK navigates the route and sets the course and you just sit
back, relax and observe.
• SK is trusted which allows you to let go and simply enjoy.
Personality • Stimulating
• Challenging
• Knowledgeable
• Inquisitive
• Adventurous
• Passionate
• Energetic
For example: Astronaut, Indiana Jones, Luke Skywalker
66
Fig. 4.2.3. Positioning Option 3: Glamour
Specific What makes me different? What makes me best?
Qualifications • Superior sound and picture • I present opportunity to
quality mix with people like
• Multi-sensory experience yourself, to see and be
beyond product seen
• Choice and variety (which • Because I am marvellous
include genres and and exciting
channels) • My ability to stimulate
• Biggest and most popular . sensation on every level
• New and topical
Relationship Producer
• SK facilitates your introduction to the stars.
• SK brings the right people together to create excitement and
sensation.
• SK facilitates the ultimate combination for the perfect
experience.
Personality • Bold, Sexy; Sensual
• Attractive
• Vibrant; Charismatic
• Awesome
For example: Peacock, Marilyn Monroe, James Dean
Proposition Red carpet
67
Fig. 4.2.4. Positioning Option 4: Indulgence
Specific What makes me different? What makes me best?
Qualifications • Superior sound and picture • I do the work while you
quality sit hack and relax
• Multi-sensory experience • Because I provide a
beyond product variety of offerings to
• Choice and variety (which ensure your needs are
include genres and directly catered to
channels) • My ability to amuse,
• Safe and secure excite and surprise you
environment
• Close and convenient
• New and topical
Relationship Therapist
• SK intuitively understands me and my needs.
• SK spoils and pampers me, makes me feel special.
• SK allows me to he the king / queen.
Personality • Inviting
• Inclusive
• Intuitive
• Safe
• Comfortable
• Consistent
• Altruistic
For example: Genie, PA, Mrs Doubtfire
Proposition Your wish is my command
68
The concept of Escape is taken from the Vision of the organization, namely:
To offer all our customers
a memorable escape
into the magic of cinema
time and time again thereby ensuring sustainable growth for
our company
At the heart of the vision was the concept of memorable escape. All the key concepts,
e.g., time and time again, or ensuring sustainable growth, are dependent upon the
customers enjoying a memorable escape. The concept of "Glamour" was added to
help define the characteristics of such an escape.
This highlights a paradigm shift by Ster-Kinekor's senior management, including
initiating a deliberate change with respect to consumer behaviour, i.e., the glamorous
escape or experience. This, according to management, would manifest itself in
customer service. Other dimensions include location and product.
4.3. Ster-Kinekor's Best Practice Strategy
4.3.1. Introduction
In this present study, the definition of best practice is limited to the operational
elements at Ster-Kinekor. During the literature review, it proved difficult to obtain
information on benchmarks in the Motion Picture Theatre industry. In South Africa
69
there are two major business chains, Ster-Kinekor and Nu Metro; Ster-Kinekor has
begun the process of developing standards. Nu Metro, preferred not to make any
comment when asked. The responsibility for crafting and implementing the new
branding strategy fell to the Chief Operations Officer (COO), 4 this included deciding
on the best practice interventions, implementation, research issues, including design
of questionnaire, timing of research, size of study, sample identification, scope,
communication and the determination of the support structure.
4.3.2. Ster-Kinekor's Intervention
This section summarises the majority of the organisations best practice interventions
intended to enhance the value of the brand. A number of initiatives are not
documented are they were considered confidential. Additional key performance
indicators (KPIs) measuring the impact of such interventions could also not be
documented.
1 NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE
11 BOLLYWOOD GENRE INITIATIVE
1
Objectives . To increase SKT brand equity by
offering film genre more appealing
to the Indian market.
- To create and grow Indian film
circuit in South Africa.
I Status 11- Completed I Type of brand benefit - Choice benefit to customers-have
more film choices to choose from
4 The Chief Operations Officer at the time was Fiaz Goolam Mahomed, author of this study.
70
i Brand value
i"
Confidence in purchasing decisions
i.e., deciding on the "right" motion
picture.
I Brand equity driver 11·
Value to customer-Performance. I
Although this strategy proved extremely profitable, it did not result in a significant
increase in turnover. The reasons for this were investigated, however, due to their
nature senior management requested that they be kept confidential.
I NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE 11
NOUVEAU GENRE INITIATIVE I Objectives . To increase SKT brand equity by
offering film genre more appealing
to the artistic and or intellectual
market.
1 Status
I" Completed. Ongoing
enhancements.
Brand identity elements . film product, logos, decor,
uniforms, carpets, concessions.
I Brand equity driver I . Value to customer-Performance.
This tool was introduced to monitor and control the key elements of an event, serve
as a repository of information and most importantly, improve the quality of events
hosted by the organisation.
71
1 NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE
11 CAMPAIGN MASTER
1
Objectives · To create an electronic system to
facilitate all marketing and
promotional events at cinema.
· To create an electronic information
system to enable storing, collating,
and analysing all data from our
promotional events.
1 Status 11·
In progress 1
1 Brand identity elements 11·
Quality / Value 1
Type of brand benefit · Functional benefit to the company
- efficiencies of the brand.
1 Brand value 11·
Value to company - Performance 1
Brand equity driver · Competitive Advantage, i.e. more
competitive because of the
efficiencies, and Trade Leverage,
i.e., trading better, because of
efficiencies.
This tool was introduced to monitor and control the key elements of an event, serve
as a repository of information and most importantly, improve the quality of events
hosted by the company.
72
NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE G2G - CATERING QUEUE TIME
INTERVENTION (PART-I)
Objectives · To ensure that no customers wait
for longer than four (4) minutes at
Catering, at any cinema and at any
time.
· To achieve a smooth and
uninterrupted flow of customers by
optimising performance at the
Catering Area.
· to have all serving and dispensing
equipment at the maximum of a
step away from each cashier's
selling point to reduce transaction
time to an average of 40 seconds.
· To ensure that all the Catering staff
is fully and well prepared to
properly serve customers before the
start of every shift.
· To ensure that all the Catering
equipment is functioning properly
at all times.
· To effectively utilise all counter
space to drive sales.
· To assist customers in making a
decision about what product to
choose to purchase prior to
reaching the counter.
73
· To ensure that the surveillance
system is administered and
implemented effectively to achieve
GPPP, hygiene and service
standards.
· To ensure that every Catering staff
member is in full, proper and clean
uniform at all times.
· To ensure that we have supplied
accurate information timeously in
order to inform management on
progress made and obtained
assistance when required.
· To ensure that the catering area is
clean and presentable to the
customers and is operating
efficiently.
Elements · Queue management and Queue
system.
· Counter Layout.
· Shift preparation.
· Counter stock and float
replenishment.
· Counter stock and float at the
beginning of shift.
· Float (size and denominations).
· Readiness of packaging material.
· Equipment.
74
· Preventative maintenance.
· Adequate equipment.
· Merchandising.
· LED Boards.
· Uniforms.
· Surveillance.
· Measurements and data collection.
· Queue time.
· Transaction time.
I Status 11· Ongoing.
I Brand identity elements 11 . Quality / Value
Type of brand benefit · Functional benefit to customers-
the service efficiency of the brand.
Brand value · Competitive Advantage, i.e. more
competitive because of the
efficiencies,and Trade Leverage,
i.e., trading better, because of
efficiencies.
I Brand equity driver 11 . Value to customer-Performance.
While the impact and success of this initiative has been significant, the information
was not permitted to be published.
75
I I
I
NAME OF THE PROJECT I INITIA TIVE G2G - CATERING QUEUE TIME
INTERVENTION (PART -2)
Objectives · To ensure that all cinemas have a
standardised, effective and proper
stock management system.
· To ensure that stock is always
ordered properly.
· To ensure that all stocked is
properly stored and can be
accounted for at all times.
· To ensure that all stock is properly
issued from the controller to
cashier, and is reconciled by the
cashiers.
· To ensure that all my stock is
properly controlled.
· To ensure that all my damaged
stock is properly accounted for and
reported.
Elements · Stock ordering
· Order stock
· Receive stock
· Stock storage
· Secure stock
· Stock utilisation
· Issue stock
· Sell stock
76
· Stock Control
· Do stock take
· Conduct stock spot check
I Status 11· Ongoing I
I Brand identity elements I· Quality / Value I I Type of brand benefit · Functional benefit to customers-
the service efficiency of the brand.
[ Brand value · User satisfaction i.e., customers
are more satisfied because of the
efficiencies.
I Brand equity driver · Improved Value Perception-
Performance
This outcome has been discussed under Part I.
77
1 NAME OF THE PROJECT /INITIATIVE
11 G2G - COMPLEX ADMINISTRATION
1
Objectives · To achieve maximum operational
efficiencies by ensuring that every
cinema complex is 100 %
compliant in all complex
administration related aspects of the
business.
· To ensure that the cinema lines ups
have been done properly
• To ensure that rostering is done
properly, and the COR Report is
properly utilised, to manage my
cinema.
· T conduct management reviews of
the business is properly collected,
collated, and stored.
• To ensure that every cinema has
and uses a efficient and effective
standardised system for managing
its records.
· To ensure that money at the cinema
complex is managed properly.
• To ensure that all the necessary spot
checks (and audits) are properly
done.
Elements · Management reviews
· Line Ups
· Black Book
78
· BabyG
· COR Report
· Rostering
· Use of COR as a management tool
· Paperwork
· Daily paper work
· Weekly paper work
· Monthly paper work
· Filling
· Management of money /
Management of float
· Conducting of spot checks
· Box Office Spot check
· Catering Spot Checks
· Demographic button spot check
• House Count spot check
• Surveillance spot checks
· Data integrity spot checks
· Conduct an audit of daily box office
figures, financial transactions,
banking reports, sales analysis for
all clubs, film club duplicate usage,
film club manual swipes, re-
instatements reports, credit card
batches, and teller-mate slips
attached to banking report.
I Status 11·
Ongoing I
79
Brand identity elements · Improved efficiency I Type of brand benefit · Shorter queues, correct cash
handling, accuracy.
Brand value · User satisfaction I Brand equity driver · Improved Value Perception I
While this intervention has primarily an internal focus, the impact, accuracy and
efficiency filtered through to the external customer. It also enhanced the creation of a
positive working environment. The attention and focus upon Staff and resultant
appreciation for what they did was much appreciated. It later surfaced that staff
previously felt neglected and were only "paid any attention" when something went
wrong.
80
NAME OF THE PROJECT I INITIATIVE G2G - TOILET AND FOYER
MANAGEMENT INTERVENTIONS
(PART 1)
Objectives · That cinemas are always clean and
hygienic at all times, this ensuring
a memorable escape for our
customers to ensure that every
cleaning staff is always in full
uniform.
· To ensure that the inside of the
Cinemas is always clean, tidy and
hygienic.
· To ensure that the administration
offices are always clean, tidy and
hygienic.
· To ensure that the Store Rooms are
always clean, tidy and hygienic.
· To ensure that the kitchen is
always clean, tidy and hygienic.
· To ensure that the Toilets are
always clean, tidy and hygienic.
· To ensure that the Catering
Equipment is always clean and
hygienic.
· To ensure that all equipment is
always clean, tidy, and dust free.
· To ensure that box office area is
always clean, tidy, and dust free.
81
I I
· To ensure that the Cinema
Complex foyer is always clean,
tidy and hygienic.
Elements • Uniforms
· Foyer
· In Cinema
· Toilets
· Administration office
· Store rooms
· Kitchens
· Catering equipment
· Other equipment
Status · Ongoing
Brand identity elements · Organisational attributes
Type of brand benefit · Sensory benefit, to customers-
image of the brand
Brand value · User satisfaction i.e., customers are
satisfied with the look and feel or
image of the cinema surroundings.
Brand equity driver · Improved Value Perception-
Imagery
While improvement was noted in this area, the service level is considered satisfactory
by management. An alternative was to outsource this function, but this has proved to
be expensive.
82
I I
1 NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE
11 G2G - DOOR ACCESS INTERVENTION
1
Objectives · To ensure that all our customers
continue to enjoy a memorable
escape when they enter, inside, and
leave cinemas.
· To ensure that every Door person
and or Cinema Assistant managing
the door access control points is in
full, proper and clean uniforms at
all times.
· To ensure that every customer that
enters a cinema has a valid ticket,
stamp, and or card, thus ensuring
our ability to continue offering a
memorable escape to our
customers.
· To ensure that there is proper
management of customer flow
coming in and going out of the
auditoriums.
· To ensure that customers enjoy a
memorable escape through proper
greeting, directing and providing
the accurate information.
· To ensure that the look and feel of
the door access control points
always supports memorable escape.
· To ensure that all the door access
83
staff is fully and well prepared to
properly serve customers before the
start of every shift, and at the start
and end of every performance.
· To ensure that the inside of the
auditoriums are patrolled
accordingly to ensure memorable
escape for our customers.
Elements · Customer Access;
· Customer flow;
· Uniforms;
· Customer services;
· Look and feel of the door access
control point;
· Shift readiness; and,
· In-cinemas
Status · Ongoing I Brand identity elements · Organisational attributes I Type of brand benefit · Sensory benefit, to customers, -
image of the brand
Brand value
I' User satisfaction i.e., customers are
satisfied with the look and feel or
image of the cinema surroundings.
Brand equity driver 11·
Value to customer - Imagery I
84
According to management, although this area has improved, it is only considered to
be satisfactory and not ideal. The reasons have been identified, but once again could
not be published due to the nature of the content.
NAME OF THE PROJECT /
INITIATIVE I CLEANING I
I~~~=~ Objectives • The main objective of the task pack is to
that cmemas are always clean and
hygienic at all times, this ensuring a
memorable escape for our customers.
• The objective of this intervention is to
ensure that every cleaning staff is always
in full uniform.
• The objective of this intervention is to
ensure that the Cinema Complex foyer is
always clean, tidy and hygienic.
• The objective of this intervention is to
ensure that the inside of the Cinemas is
always clean, tidy and hygienic.
• The objective of this intervention is to
ensure that the administration offices are
always clean, tidy and hygienic.
• The objective ofthis intervention is to
ensure that the Store Rooms are always
clean, tidy and hygienic.
• The objective of this intervention is to
ensure that the kitchen is always clean,
85
tidy and hygienic
· The objective ofthis intervention is to
ensure that the Toilets are always clean,
tidy and hygienic.
• The objective of this intervention is to
ensure that the Catering Equipment is
always clean and hygienic.
· The objective of this intervention is to
ensure that all equipment is always
clean, tidy, and dust free.
· The objective of this intervention is to
ensure that box office area is always
clean, tidy, and dust free.
Elements · Uniforms
· Foyer
· In Cinema
· Toilets
· Administration office
· Store rooms
· Kitchens
· Catering equipment
· Other equipment
I Status 11· Ongoing I I Brand identity elements
11· Organisational attributes I
Type of brand benefit · Sensory benefit, to customers, - image
of the brand
86
I Brand value
I
. User satisfaction i.e., customers are
satisfied with the look and feel or image
of the cinema surroundings.
I Brand equity driver 11· Value to customer-Imagery I
Management has indicated that they were satisfied with the results although
additional improvement was required.
I NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIA TIVE SELF SERVICE TERMINALS (SSTs) I I Objectives · Improved customer service and
speed.
Status · Implemented I Brand identity elements · Quality / Value I Type of brand benefit · Functional benefit to customers-
the service efficiency of the brand.
Brand value · Competitive Advantage and Trade
Leverage.
Brand equity driver · Value to customer-Performance I
This is the first intervention to overcome the challenge that staff highlighted in
Chapter 2, while at the same time providing a step change in customer experience.
According to the company, the competition will take a minimum of three years to
duplicate the system. This medium has proven to be well received, according to
management. Actual utilisation could not be published.
87
NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE G2G - Box OFFICE QUEUE TIME
INTERVENTION
Objectives • To ensure that no customers wait
for longer than 3 minutes and 30
seconds at box office, at any
cinema and at any time.
· The objective of staggering is to
achieve an even flow of customers
through the cinema during every
performance.
· To achieve a smooth and
uninterrupted flow of customers by
optimising performance at the Box
Office Area.
· To ensure that screens are not
turned and thus achieving a
maximum box office queue time of
3 minutes and 30 seconds is
achieved.
· To ensure that the surveillance
system is administered and
implemented effectively to achieve
CPP, cost of sales, hygiene and
service standards.
· To assist customers in making a
decision about what film to chose
before reaching the Box Office
Cashier, by providing accurate and
visible information (e.g., starting
88
times; age restrictions; sold outs; no
complimentaries; warnings etc).
· To provide customers with
appropriate information to assist in
making a decision about what film
to chose.
· To ensure that all the Box Office
equipment is functioning properly
at all times.
· To ensure that every Box Office
staff member is in full, proper and
clean uniforms at all times.
· To ensure that all the Box Office
staff is fully and well prepared to
properly serve customers before the
start of every shift.
· To ensure that we have supplied
accurate information timeously in
order to inform management on
progress made and obtained
assistance when required.
Elements · Measurements and data collection.
• COR (rostering).
· Seating plans (keeping the screens
straight).
· A verage transaction times.
· Queue management.
· Management presence.
89
· Staggering (Stagger Master).
· Surveillance.
· Show Times
· Poster boxes.
· Motion Picture information.
· Queuing systems.
• Equipment (including Ticket-line).
• Reinstatements.
· Uniforms.
· Coaching (CBMT pass).
• Shift preparation (including Ticket-
line).
I Status · Ongoing
I Brand identity elements · Quality / Value
I Type of brand benefit · Functional benefit to customers-
the service efficiency of the brand
Brand value · Competitive Advantage, i.e., more
competitive because of the
efficiencies, and Trade Leverage,
i.e., trading better, because of
efficiencies.
I Brand equity driver 11 . Value to customer-Performance
Identified as being a major reason for a film theatre receiving a negative rating, this
initiative is aimed at improving customer service. The intervention has reduced queue
times, but according to management, has not reached its stated objective; concerns
have also been raised about its sustainability. This process is to be automated,
90
I I
I
1
controlled and measured regularly. This will include the standardised scheduling of
show times and the requisite number of staff per show time in order to minimise
queues. This will take place in real-time. Once again, due to issues of confidentiality,
the reasons could not be published.
NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE 11
G2G - PROJECTION INTERVENTION
Objectives · To ensure magical customer cinema
experience through perfect
presentation.
· to ensure that the product is ready
for perfect presentation as expected,
· To ensure perfect presentation
· To ensure that all projection booths
adhere to the projection booth
standards.
· To ensure that every projectionist
staff is in full uniform.
• To ensure that assets and product is
fully secured at all times.
· To ensure that my cinema fully
adheres to all projection related
processes, rules and standards.
Elements • Preparing the product
· Making up of support programmes
· Making up of the feature film
· Completing the film report, incl.
91
1
supporting programme.
• Perfect presentation of the product
· Aperture plates
· Masking
· Screens
· Sound
· Secure projector to the floor, if
there is movement.
· Cinema and in-cinema inspections
· Foyer inspection
· Air-conditioning inspection
· Toilet inspection
· Fire inspection
· Auditorium inspection
· Perfect presentation inspection
• Adherence to the projection booth
standards
· Uniforms
· Standardizing the current content.
· Security
· Safety of assets
· Safety ofthe product
· Preventing piracy (NATO
Procedure)
I Status 11· Ongoing I
I Brand identity elements 11·
Quality / Value I
92
I Type of brand benefit · Functional benefit to customers-
the service quality of the brand.
I Brand value · Use satisfaction, i.e., customers are
more satisfied because of the better
quality of projection and sound
I Brand equity driver · Value to customer-Performance
Understanding the customer journey is probably the most important intervention. The
quality of picture and sound are central to the overall experience, which is intended to
transport a person across time and space and evoke a number of senses. According to
senior management this has been the most problematic to turnaround. The reasons
could not be divulged, again due to issues of confidentiality. Management have
indicated that several further interventions are planned to ensure their objectives are
met.
93
I
I NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE 11
FACILITIES MANAGEMENT I Objectives · To provide complexes with a single
contact point for services and
facilities maintenance.
· To support the brand promise of a
memorable escape, by offering the
following benefits:
· A one-stop-shop, which enables the
cinema manager to focus on
customers.
• Ability for accurate future planning.
· The service desk consultant will
follow-up on behalf of the manager,
therefore the manager does not
need to call technicians to follow
up on a query.
· The manager is required to quality
control the service provided by
technicians and external suppliers
by validating the call after the
technicians have fixed the problem.
This will ensure that the company
keeps track of the quality of
technicians and the productivity of
external suppliers.
· Facilities management will enable
effective tracking of spend
· Facilities management will enable
94
managers to accurately analyze
spend.
· Facilities management will enable
efficiency of suppliers
· Facilities management will
minimize down time:
· Equipment down-time
· Show down-time
· Service, for example, ticket-line
down-time.
1 Status 11·
Ongoing
1 Brand identity elements 11·
Quality / Value
Type of brand benefit · Functional benefit to the
company-efficiencies of the
brand.
Brand value · Competitive Advantage, i.e., more
competitive because of the
efficiencies, and Trade Leverage,
i.e., trading better, because of
efficiencies.
1 Brand equity driver 11·
Value to company-Performance
This intervention is not fully implemented, but for the areas utilising the facilities
management tools, senior management feels that it is already yielding positive
results. The link to the experience or escape has been defined as providing support to
cinema management and shares the burden of daily infrastructure and IT related tasks
and incidences. This will allow the cinema manger to focus on her/his internal and
external customers.
95
1
1
1
NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIA TIVE SCHEDULING - CENTRALIZATION,
TIME & ATTENDANCE
Objectives • Customers have accurate
information in respect of show
times.
· Staff are scheduled effectively to
ensure attainment of stated queue
lengths
· Staffing cost control
I Status 11· Piloting I I Brand identity elements 11· Quality / Value I
Type of brand benefit · Functional benefit to the
company---efficiencies of the
brand.
Brand value · Competitive Advantage, i.e., more
competitive because of the
efficiencies, and Trade Leverage,
i.e., trading better, because of
efficiencies.
I Brand equity driver 11 . Value to company-Performance I This was addressed under queue times. No additional information was available.
96
NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE UPGRADE SATELLITE (RTT) DISPATCH
SYSTEM
Main aim · To update the system on RTTs
dispatch to confirm the weight of
the parcel handed to them from
SKHE dispatch.
Objectives · Improve service level
· Control costs
Status • Ongoing I Brand identity elements · Quality / Value I Type of brand benefit · Functional benefit to the
company---efficiencies of the brand
Brand value · Competitive Advantage, i.e., more
competitive because of the
efficiencies, and Trade Leverage,
i.e., trading better, because of
efficiencies.
I Brand equity driver 11·
Value to company - Performance I
No additional information was available.
97
NAME OF THE PROJECT I INITIATIVE EXTEND SIZE OF DISTRIBUTION CENTRE 1
Objectives · To adequately cater for volumes and
new product ranges and sizes
Status · Ongoing 1
Brand identity elements · Quality / Value 1
Type of brand benefit · Functional benefit' to the company-
efficiencies of the brand.
Brand value · Competitive Advantage, i.e., more
competitive because of the
efficiencies, and Trade Leverage, i.e.,
trading better, because of
efficiencies.
1 Brand equity driver 11·
Value to company-Performance 1
No additional information available.
1 NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE
11 GLAMOROUS CINEMAS
1
I Objectives
I" To ensure the cinema look and feel
supports the Glamour strategy.
Elements · Ticket-line
· Plasma Screens
· Poster Boxes
· Signage, including SKT logo, menu
boards
98
· Self Service Terminals
· Competition Boxes
· Promo material by site-list from
Ops
· Internal information signage
I Status 11· On-going
Type of brand benefit · Emotional and sensory benefit to
customers-customers are happy
with how SKT brand looks and
feel-image of the brand
1 B,and value
I' User satisfaction i.e., customers are
satisfied with the look and feel or
image of the cinema surroundings.
I Brand equity driver 11·
Value to customer-Imagery
There are three cinemas that have the new look and feel. All sites have shown strong
customer support and are considered extremely profitable. The actual results could
not however be published, due to restrictions imposed by senior Ster-Kinekor
management. According to management this is a significant step in the pursuit of
"Glamour." Another significant step is the introduction of new look and feel seating
at the Four Ways Mall. Seating features include a headrest, individual armrests,
lumbar support and the provision of a table for concessions. According to the cinema
manager this has been well received and numerous compliments have been received
from the viewing public.
99
I
I
I NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE 11
SIGNAGE - MENU BOARDS
1 Objectives
I" Improved perception of quality and
range
I Status 11·
Partially complete
I Brand identity elements 11· Visual images
Type of brand benefit · Emotional and sensory benefit to
customers--customers are happy
with how SKT brand looks and
feel-image of the brand
1 Brand value
I"
User satisfaction i.e., customers are
satisfied with the look and feel or
image of the cinema surroundings.
I Brand equity driver 11·
Value to customer-Imagery
This is a phased rollout and the project is on target. The menu boards have been well
received and have contributed to increasing the perceived value of the concessions.
NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE SIGNAGE - SKT LOGO
Main aim · To modernise the SK logo
Objectives · Customers perceive the brand to be
glamorous
Status · Ongoing
Brand identity elements · Personality
Type of brand benefit · Emotional and sensory benefit to
100
I
I
I
I
I
I
I I I
I I
customers--customers are happy
with how SKT brand looks and
feel-image of the brand
1 Brand value
I' User satisfaction i.e., customers are
satisfied with the look and feel or
image of the cinema surroundings.
I Brand equity driver 11· Value to customer-Imagery
According to management this is a phased rollout and is considered to be on track.
NAME OF THE PROJECT I INITIATIVE NEW UNIFORM LOOK AND FEEL
Objectives · Customers perceive the brand to be
glamorous
Status · Complete
Brand identity elements · Organisational attributes
Type of brand benefit · Sensory benefit, to customers-
image of the brand
Brand value
I' Use satisfaction i.e., customers are
satisfied with the "image" of the
people that are serving them.
Brand equity driver 11· Value to customer-Imagery
The uniforms support the objective of Glamour and have been well received by staff
and cinema management alike.
101
116040
I
I
I I
I
NAME OF THE PROJECT I INITIATIVE 11
GLAMOUR - PLASMA SCREENS I Objectives · To reduce perceived burden of
queuing, by creating a distraction.
Status · On target I Brand identity elements · Organisational attributes I Type of brand benefit · Sensory benefit, to customers-
image of the brand
Brand value · User satisfaction i.e., customers are
satisfied with the look and feel or
image of the cinema surroundings.
Brand equity driver · Value to customer-Imagery I
No additional information available.
102
NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE 11
VORTO
Objectives · Reduce queue times
Status · Complete
Brand identity elements · Quality / Value
Type of brand benefit
I' Functional benefit to customers-
the service efficiency of the brand.
Brand value
I' User satisfaction i.e., customers are
more satisfied because of the
efficiencies.
Brand equity driver
I' Value to both customer and
company-Performance
This initiative has been well received by internal and external customers. It spawned
the introduction of the self service terminals, which is a first in South Africa.
NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE NEW DEVELOPMENTS WITHIN SOUTH
AFRICA, E.G. WONDER -PARK.
Objectives · To be the largest cinema
entertainment provider in Africa
· To build new cinemas in certain
South Africa
Elements · Identify potential market
· Research feasibility and viability
· Build
103
I Status 11· On-going
I Brand identity elements 11· Local versus global
Type of brand benefit . Choice benefit to customers-they
have more film houses to choose
from.
Brand value . Competitive Advantage, i.e. more
competitive because of a larger
footprint within South Africa, due
to the brand builds, and Trade
Leverage, i.e., trading better, i.e.
trading better because of a larger
footprint within South Africa
, Brand equity driver
"
Increased footprint, enhance
leadership position.
I
In line with the strategy of improving cinema access to middle class South Africa, the
majority of whom are the black consumer market, thus site is close to Soshanguve.
This dynamic is reflected in the customer mix.
NAME OF THE PROJECf / INITIATIVE 11
MOVIE CLUB
Objectives . To increase and sustain SKF brand
equity
. To increase attendance frequency
from our customers.
, Elements
"
Converting non-member customers to
club members
104
I I
I
I · Rewarding customers.
· Communicating to customers
I Status · Ongoing
I Brand identity elements · Movie scheme programmes
Type of brand benefit · Relationship benefit-customer
loyalty to the brand
1 B,and value
I' Brand loyalty, i.e., customers are
more loyal to the brand because of
the film club benefits
I Brand equity driver 11·
Value to company-Resonance
This is primarily a frequency driver and while the size of the base cannot be
disclosed, it is significant.
I NAME OF THE PROJECT /INITIATIVE 11
VITALITY
Objectives · To increase and sustain SKF brand
equity
• To increase attendance frequency
from our customers
Elements · Converting non-member customers to
club members
· Rewarding customers.
· Communicating to customers
I Status 11·
Ongoing I
105
I I
I
I
Brand identity elements ! · Movie scheme programmes
Type of brand benefit · Relationship benefit-customer
loyalty to the brand
Brand value · Brand loyalty, i.e., customers are
more loyal to the brand because of
the vitality club benefits
Brand equity driver · Value to company-Resonance
This strategic association has grown the base of customers and increased their
frequency. Once again, the statistics cannot be disclosed, but are significant.
106
I
I
1 NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIA TIVE
11 60 + FILM CLUB MEMBERSHIP
1
Objectives · To increase and sustain SKF brand
equity
· To increase attendance frequency
from our customers
Elements · Converting non-member customers to
club members
· Rewarding customers.
· Communicating to customers
I Status 11· Ongoing 1
I Brand identity elements 11 . Movie scheme programmes 1
Type of brand benefit · Relationship benefit-customer
loyalty to the brand
1 Brand value
I"
Brand loyalty, i.e. customers are more
loyal to the brand because of the 60 +
film club benefits
1 Brand equity driver 11·
Value to company-Resonance 1
No additional information could be obtained.
I NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIA TIVE 11
CAST A CRITIC 1
Objectives • To create a competition whose
ultimate aim is to find a credible
black film critic that will become a
permanent feature on Metro FM, by
107
the end of September 2004.
• To get the public involved in the
selection process, so a build that
credibility and give the public
ownership of what they create.
· To have placed the winner of the
competition in a position from where
her/she will feed the public with
information and her/his opinion on
motion pictures.
Elements · Media partners
· Finances
· Logistics
· Entries - pre-promo selection
· Pre-promo & launch
· Selection
· Selection panel
• Bootcamp
· Winner announcement event
· Media partners
· Finances
· Logistics
I Status · Completed I I Brand identity elements · Media campaigns I I Type of brand benefit · Knowledge benefit to customers-
identity of the brand
108
1 Brand value I' Customers ability to interpret /
process information about movies
I Brand equity driver 11· Value to customer-Salience I
This supports the drive into the black consumer market and from a best practice
perspective it is viewed as ensuring all the elements that made the industry successful
within the white consumer market have been implemented for the black consumer
market.
1 NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE
11 RANK T.V. ADVERTISING
1
1 Mrunrum I' To grow and sustain the number of
black customers coming to cinemas
Objectives · To increase product awareness
among black customers.
· To increase SKF brand awareness
among black customers.
Status · Ongoing I Brand identity elements · Media campaigns I Type of brand benefit · Knowledge benefit to customers-
identity of the brand
Brand value · Customers ability to interpret /
process information about movies
I Brand equity driver · Value to customer-Salience I
No additional information available.
109
1 NAME OF THE PROJECT /INITIATIVE
11 SKT IN ISIDINGO
1
[ M~rum [ .
To grow and sustain the number
of black customers coming to
cinemas
Objectives · To increase product awareness
among black customers.
· To increase SKF brand awareness
among black customers.
Elements · Mentions of Ster-Kinekor film
titles on ad-hoc basis.
· Branding
· Product awareness
I Status • Ongoing 1
1 Brand identity elements · Media campaigns 1
I Type of brand benefit · Knowledge benefit to
customers-identity of the brand
Brand value · Customers ability to interpret /
process information about
movies, and or what film
exhibitor to go to
I Brand equity driver 11·
Value to customer-Salience I
No additional information available.
110
NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE o MAGAZINE GIRLS NIGHT OUT WITH
STER-KINEKOR
[ Objectives [ . To host monthly screenings for their
readers.
Elements · Only the best films are selected that
are appropriate to this market.
· Readers also enjoy "give-aways" and
special gifts on the night.
• Coke and popcorn is provided with
our compliments.
· This promotion is an excellent
vehicle to sample cinema to emerging
market customers for two reasons:
· It is indirectly endorsed by Oprah
· The magazine has a high penetration
into the black consumer market.
Status · Ongoing I Brand identity elements · Media campaigns I Type of brand benefit • Knowledge benefit to customers-
identity of the brand.
Brand value · Customers ability to interpret /
process information about movies,
and or what film exhibitor to go to
Brand equity driver 11·
Value to customer-Salience I
No additional information available.
111
1 NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE
11 "HOWZIT HOLLYWOOD 2005?"
1
Objectives · To increase brand equity by
"owning" the Oscars phenomenon in
the market because that association
reinforces the perception that Ster-
Kinekor brings the best movies first.
· To achieve a media value of 1:5 (hard
cost) by running an a Oscar®
screening campaign on SABC 1, a
radio campaign and competition
across 5FM, Metro FM and Good
Hope FM radio stations.
· To generate awareness of our
ownership of the Oscars® through
mass media.
· To stimulate word-of-mouth for the
Oscar® nominated films (the
"smaller" films enjoy particular
benefit here)
· To reach the entire market spectrum
hence the name of the campaign-
Howzit Hollywood and capitalize on
the equity around the Howzit
Hollywood brand.
Elements · A four-week (adult) screening
campaign whereby the public could
win tickets to pre-release screenings
of Oscar® nominated films, driven
112
113
predominantly through SABC 1.
A two-week (kids) screening
campaign whereby kids could win
tickets to pre-release screenings of
Oscar® nominated films, driven
predominantly through SABC 1 's
Yo-TV.
A radio competition enabling
listeners the opportunity to win a trip
to say "Howzit Hollywood" on 5FM,
Metro FM and Good Hope FM. Each
station had one ticket to give away.
The breakfast Dj's from the above
three stations were sent to Hollywood
in the week leading up to the A wards,
doing live crossing reporting back on
the excitement in Hollywood and
then attended the Oscars®.
A Howzit Hollywood DVD Box set
retailed through Ster-Kinekor Home
Entertainment.
A Howzit Hollywood Coke and
Popcorn combo, available at all Ster
Kinekor cinemas, with a competition
on the box, offering the above DVD
box sets as prizes.
Various smaller competitions through
print media, predominantly driven
through Heat Magazine.
· A grand final event, the Premiere of
Vanity Fair and an after-party which
showcased the return of our Dj's
from Hollywood and included a
young talent driven haute couture
fashion show.
I Status \\. Ongoing I I Brand identity elements · Special Promotional Campaigns I I Type ofbrand benefit · Knowledge benefit to customer-
about identity of the brand
I Brand value • Customers ability to interpret /
process information about movies,
and or what film exhibitor to go to
I Brand equity driver · Value to customer-Salience I
No additional information available.
114
I NAME OF THE PROJECT I INITIATIVE 11
BLACK MARKET AD SPEND
Objectives · To grow and sustain the number of
black customers coming to cinemas
• To increase the amount of money
spent in advertising movies to the
black market.
· To raise product awareness in the
Black market
1 Elements · Product and brand awareness in all
relevant media.
I Status · Ongoing
I Brand identity elements • Special Promotional Campaigns
Type of brand benefit · Knowledge benefit to customers-
identity of the brand
1 Brand value I' Customers ability to interpret /
process information about movies
I Brand equity driver 11·
Value to customer-Salience
Media spend traditionally focused on the white consumer market. To illustrate, on
national television, advertising was mainly flighted on SABC 3 and MNetlDSTV.
The organisation focussed on encouraging distributors of films to increase spends to
include SABC 1 and 2. The same principle was applied to print and radio.
115
I
I I
I
1 NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE
11 CSI - VISION MISSION
1
Objectives · To bring Ster-Kinekor's Corporate
Social Investment initiatives to the
youth in underprivileged
communities by identifying and
helping those with visual problems.
· Identify learners with preventable
vision related problems
· Identify learners requiring glasses
· Distributing glasses to learners
requiring glasses
Elements · Selection of schools
· Selection oflearners
• Screening and testing of learners
· Dispensing of glasses
1 Status 11·
Ongoing 1
1 Brand identity elements 11· Other campaigns I Type of brand benefit · Relationship benefit-a mutually
beneficial relationship between
customers and the brand (community
engagement)
I Brand value 11 . Brand loyalty I 1 Brand equity driver
11· Value to customer-Resonance
1
No additional information available.
116
NAME OF THE PROJECf / INITIATIVE NACHOS PROJECT I Objectives · To increase catering product scope /
offerings, that customer can choose
from.
Status · Implementing
Brand identity elements I . Catering offerings
Type of brand benefit · Choice benefit to customers-they
have more catering choices to choose
from.
1 Brand value
I' Confidence in purchasing decisions
i.e., deciding on the "right" catering
offering
1 Brand equity driver 11·
Value to customer-Performance
The objective of increasing the scope of product is ongoing as new trends in the
market present themselves. The initiatives that follow echo this statement. No
information was made available on the success of these interventions due to issues of
confidentiality.
117
I I
1
I NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE I PIES PROJECT I I Objectives · To increase catering product scope /
offerings, that customer can choose
from.
I Status · Pilot phase I I Brand identity elements I . Catering offerings I
Type of brand benefit · Choice benefit to customers-they
have more catering choices to choose
from.
I Brand value
I' Confidence in purchasing decisions
deciding on the "right" catering
offering
I Brand equity driver 11· Value to customer~Performance I
No additional information could be obtained.
NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE COFFEE PROJECT I Main aim · To offer customers choice I Objectives · To increase catering product scope /
offerings, that customer can choose
from.
Status · Conceptual phase I
Brand identity elements · High quality product and packaging I Type of brand benefit · Improved value perception-choice I
118
I and quality
I
1 Brand value · Confidence in purchasing decisions
deciding on the "right" catering
offering.
I Brand equity driver · Value to Customer I
No additional information could be obtained.
I NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIATIVE
11 COMBOS E.G., MENTOS COMBOS I
Objectives · Improve Catering Sales
• To create affordable combos in order
to get customers to buy Popcorn,
Coke and a sweet.
I Status 11·
Ongoing I
I Brand identity elements 11·
Catering offerings I Type of brand benefit • Choice benefit to customers-they
have more catering choices to choose
from.
1 Brand value
I· Confidence in purchasing decisions
deciding on the "right" catering
offering
I Brand equity driver 11·
Value to customer-Performance I
119
1 NAME OF THE PROJECT / INITIA TIVE 11 POPCORN IN PACKETS
Objectives · To improve Catering Sales
· To create cheaper combos for these
cinemas in order to push catering
sales.
1 Status · On-going
1 Brand identity elements • Catering offerings
1 Type of brand benefit · Functional benefit
I Brand value · Confidence in purchasing decisions
deciding on the "right" catering
offering
I Brand equity driver • Value to customer-Performance
No additional information could be obtained.
4.4. Conclusion
This chapter highlighted a number of interventions intended to improve customer
experience and is the basis of the organisations strategy for enhancing the brand
image and perceived value of the brand. Ster-Kinekor intends to "de-risk" going to
the movies and raise awareness of the brand through elements of self promotion (on
plasma screens), but primarily through a "Glamorous Experience." Chapter 5 will
review the results of the 800 interviews and interpret the customer's reaction to their
strategy.
120
1
1
I 1
1
CHAPTER 5
PRESENTATION OF RESEARCH
5. Introduction
In the previous chapter a brief history of Ster-Kinekor was presented. The chapter
included the interventions embarked on by Ster-Kinekor to deliver on its brand
promise. In this chapter the research fmdings are presented. The main objective of the
research was to establish whether the strategy embarked on by Ster-Kinekor will
deliver more attendances. The strategy is based on implementing best practice and
thereby repositioning the brand. Ster-Kinekor view is that this will enhance the
perception of the brand and improve the consumer experience of going to the movies.
5.1 Research Findings
The research findings have been categorised and presented graphically with
interpretations offered upon each graph. The need for confidentiality has limited
comment on some of the findings.
121
5.1.1. Review of Sample
REVIEW OF SAMPLE
100% 90%
80% 70% 60%
50%
40%
30% 20%
10%
0% Wave 1
I More teenagers I
AGE
Wave 2
Wave 12004
Wave 2 2004
Wave 3 2005
• 51+ Years (Pensioner)
El 51+ Years (Non Pensioner) 13 35·50 Years III 26·34 Years III 19· 25 Years
• 14 • 18 Years
• Less Than 14 Years
Wave 3
The latest market research shows relatively more teenagers attending, and a shrinking
proportion of young adults aged between 19-25 years. The growth of teenage movie
goers is limited to Junction! and Classic cinemas, whereas at Nouveau, the reverse is
happening with more young adults attending.
I Ster-Kinekor Theatres have three chains; Classic (13 cinemas), Junction (27 cinemas) and Nouveau (5 cinemas). Current ticket prices are R38 at Classic; RI4 at 22 Junction cinemas, RI9 at 5 Junction cinemas and R38 at Nouveau. Discount schemes at all cinemas are applicable, these include half-price Tuesdays, children, senior citizens and a vitality linked scheme.
122
REVIEW OF SAMPLE
100%
90%
80%
70%
60% 50%
40%
30% 20%
10% 0%
Wave 1 Wave 2 Wave 3
The change in gender proportions is important, and most noticeable at Nouveau. An
increased interest in film-going especially among females would seem to be in
evidence. This has been double checked with the field-force to clarify whether males
were less willing to be interviewed, but this was not especially noted, although there
was some observation of females in couples being more willing to volunteer to do the
interview!
123
REVIEW OF SAMPLE
100%
90'!. 80% 70% 60%
50%
40~.
30"1. 20"1. 10% 0'10
TotllWl .N1IK1to" Claulc: Non",
Slightly more men interviewed attended the cinema with their spouse or partner. This
means that the increased overall proportion of females in the sample cannot be
attributed to couples where the female elected to take the interview rather than the
male.
It can be seen that female respondents are less likely (than average) to be going to
film theatres alone (although a significant group still do), and relatively more likely to
be attending with children and other family members at Junction and Classic, but
with friends at Nouveau. Relatively more males attend alone, although attendance
with friends or spouse is still very high.
124
REVIEW OF SAMPLE
100%
90%
80% 70% 60%
50%
40%
30% 20%
10% 0%
Wave 1 Wave 2 Wave 3
El Widowed !ill MarrlLiv Tog: > 3 Years !ill MarrlLiv Tog: < 3 Years • Single,Divorced/Separated
The total proportion of all single people has grown; real growth coming from
previously married people who have come back to the market. Interestingly, there is
no significant variation between the brands in this respect. It is noted that overall, a
higher proportion of males (77%) in the sample were single (never married)
compared to females (67%), and a higher proportion of females (15%) were
previously married compared to males (11 %).
125
REVIEW OF SAMPLE i){L[H1U;
100% 90%
80% 70%
00 Children Older Than 18 60% 00 Children 14·18 Years 50% 00 Children 12·13 Years
40% III Children Under12 Years
30% • Wrthout Children
20%
10%
0% Wave 1 Wave 2 Wave 3
It can be assumed that the increased attendance with younger children is probably
linked to lower ticket prices. However, due to the quality of films screened (e.g.,
Shrek 2 and Spiderman) the higher-priced Classic cinemas also show growth in this
segment.
126
REVIEW OF SAMPLE
100%
90%
80% 70%
60% El Asian
50% Il!I Coloured
Il!I WhMe 40% • Black 30%
20%
10%
0% Wave 1 Wave 2 Wave 3
There is a pleasing increase in attendance by Black South Africans, which was one of
the objectives behind the strategy when the new Junction brand was launched. The
Classic profile has remained almost identical to the previous wave. The black
consumer market has increased by 29%.
127
REVIEW OF SAMPLE
100%
90%
80%
70%
60% 50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0% Wave 1
I More black South Africans I Wave 2
This data supports the comments made previously.
128
Cl Other
• Venda IiiI Ndebele Cl Zulu
• )(hosa I!II Tswana Cl South Sotho
North Sotho
Wave 3
REVIEW OF SAMPLE
100% 90%
80%
70% 60%
• Category 10 • Category 9
lE Category 8
50% lE Category 7
40% lE Category 6
30% El Category 5
20%
10%
0% Wave 1 Wave 2 Wave 3
In the light of the dramatic change in ticket prices, it is interesting that the Living
Standards Measure (LSM) profile of the sample shows a very large increase at the top
end of the continuum. The results show a slightly higher proportion of individuals
from lower LSM households attending Junction cinemas.
129
REVIEW OF SAMPLE
100%
90%
80%
70%
60%
• Category 10 • Category 9 Ill! Category 8
50% Ill! Category 7
40% Ill! Category 6
30% 13 Category 5
20%
10%
0% Total W3 Black White Coloured Asian
As would be expected, there are far more LSM 10's amongst white respondents,
whereas just over 60% of the black respondents are in LSM 8 or higher. In all race
groups, the LSM distribution of cinema-goers is skewed towards the higher LSMs,
when compared to the population as a whole (as measured by AMPS), but the
difference is far more extreme among blacks.
130
REVIEW OF SAMPLE
100% 90%
80% III Refused
70% • RJO 000 Or More
• R25 000 • R29 999 60% 13 R20 000 • R24 999
50% III R10 000· R19 999
40% llll R5 000 • R9 999
30% llll R2 000 • R4 999
• less Than R1 999 20% El NotWorkin 10%
0% Wave 1 Wave 2 Wave 3
More people with higher standard of living, but income breaks have not shifted much
While more people in higher LSMs are attending, this does not mean that personal
income levels have shifted accordingly. Proportions of income groups remain
relatively consistent across the waves, although the spread does differ somewhat
across brands in Wave 3. Nouveau cinemas include far fewer non-working people,
and more people at the top end of the scale. Junction cinemas show more people at
lower income levels and Classic cinemas are weighted in the middle.
131
REVIEW OF SAMPLE LIVING WlTH fAMILY
120.00% ~--------------------,
100.00%
80.00%
60.00%
40.00%
20.00%
0.00% Less Than 14 ·18 14 Years Years
19· 25 Years
26·34 Years
35 • 50 Pensioner Years
IIiiI Living With Parents Wl • Living With Parents W2 Ii'l Living Wrth Parents w31 This explains the evidence of more people with higher standard of living, whilst income breaks have not shifted much - standard oi living is linked to household
Since the LSM has shifted more than income overall, further investigation was
warranted. The data shows that more young people continue to live at home than
before. While their overall standard of living might be higher than would be predicted
by their personal disposable income, other parties contribute to the costs of the
household.
132
5.1.2. Movie Attendance
MOVIE ATTENDANCE
3.5
2.5
1.5
0.5
TOTAL AND STERftK1NEKOR MOViES ATTENDED IN LAST ~}ONTH (etAIMED)
70%
60% _ Total mo'oies in last month
50% .. S-K mo-.1es in last month
__ S-K mo\4es % of total
20%
10%
0%
I Ster-Kineko(s share of total has sl ipped I
The data here reveals reported/recalled number of motion pictures attended in the
last month. When respondents were asked how many films they think they have
attended in the last month, the average has remained consistent, but the proportion
claimed to be at Ster-Kinekor has slipped slightly. This reduced share comes from
respondents at Junction cinema sites
133
MOVIE ATTENDANCE TUThLAND ATTEHDEU 1N LAST (ClJ<vTD}
Ster-Kinekors share of total has remained constant, bllt overall reported attendance has
When asked to recall attendance over the last year, the average reported number
has decreased somewhat since the last wave, but the Ster-Kinekor market share
has remained at the same level, this proportion remaining fairly consistent across
all brands. Since the information here and on the previous page is based solely
upon recall, it is suggested that the attendance figures at Ster-Kinekor cinemas be
used as a baseline, in order to estimate share of total.
134
MOVIE ATTENDANCE
100%
90%
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0% Wave 1 Wave 2 Wave 3
More change than before, but both in the "more often" and "less often"
Respondents were asked if they thought they were attending movies more or less
often than in the past. Irrespective of the results of the comparison of the claimed
number of movies seen across waves, a number of the respondents in the latest
wave believe that they attended movies more often than in the past. Interestingly
the number of people saying they have been less often has also increased.
135
MOVIE ATTENDANCE ;\TTFND;\NCE
, ...... - ..... -.. --_ ... -... -.. -_ ...... -..... -.............. -.-....... -......................... ------.-.. ----.................... -.- ............ --.-....... --.. -.. ········--···1 Pricing drives increased attendance, but this is still supported by other aspects such as perceived time availability, convenient and movie offeringiexperience ..... _ .... _ .......... __ ....... _._ ........... _ ............. _ ........... _ ...... _._._-_ ..... _. __ ._---_ ..... _ ............... _-_ ........•.... __ ......... _ ................ _ ...... .
Respondents were asked to say why their movie attendance had changed.
Responses were unprompted, but captured on a pre-coded list to facilitate easy
tracking. Unsurprisingly, the reduced ticket price/being able to afford going more
often were the most frequent answers. However, this reason does not completely
dominate the picture, and comments relating to the movie experience in totality
emerge at significant levels. When reasons for each of the brands are examined,
the pattern that emerges does support the desired brand positioning.
136
MOVIE A ITENDANCE REASON FOH REPOHTED DECHEj,SE IN ATTENDANCE.
[ ....... _-_ .. - ................................................ __ ....... _ .. _-_ ..... _ ........... ] Altemative forms of entertainment, including movies at home are providing increased ccmpetition. Expense will always remain an issue for certain people , as life circumstances change ·· ..... '_·.M ......... _ .. ·.·.· .. ·.··._··· .. ··········· .. ··· ... __ .. _ ........ __ ... ____ .......................... _ ....... _ ... __ ............ __ ......... __ .... _ .. __ ..... _ ... __
Changing lifestyles and life circumstances appear to largely affect reduced movie
attendance, rather than negative movie/cinema related experiences. Movies and
general TV viewing at home emerge as strong alternatives especially for Junction
site respondents.
5.1.3. Movie Behaviour
Ster-Kinekor's own systems should be able to provide the total picture regarding
trends in purchase channels, but in this sample, the self service terminae has made an
appearance at a significant level, most notably at Classic cinemas. Respondents at
Nouveau cinemas show a notably higher use of the call centre.
2 Ster-Kinekor has introduced self-service tenninals. This is based on the banking industry's ATM concept. It allows the customer to purchase a ticket, choose their seats and pay with a debit, cheque or credit card.
137
MOVIE BEHAVIOUR
100%
90%
80%
70% 60% 50%
40%
30% 20%
10% 0%
Wave 1 Wave 2 Wave 3
• While Standing In Queue • Today Before I Got Here El Yesterday III In The Last Week
Decisions are being made more in advance than before, although same day and in the queue still dominate
The interviews also explored when people made decisions regarding their visit to the
cinema. In previous waves this was limited to when the movie title decision was
made, but the following two pages show how the area has been explored further in
the current wave. Regarding movie title, most people do make the decision on the
same day, although there is more evidence of more people deciding earlier.
138
MOVIE BEHAVIOUR
100%
90%
80%
70% 60% 50%
40% 30% 20%
10% 0%
Total W3 Junction Classic Nouveau
• Longer Ago Than A Week • In The Last Week
• Yesterday !ill Today Before I Got Here Ii1 When I GotT 0 The Mall
There is quite an even spread between "yesterday" through "today' to last minute "at the mall", with Nouveau respondents being the exception - more of them plan the event in advance
In this wave, the interview also explored when people made the initial decision that
they wanted to see a movie at all. Most people decide on the actual day, or else the
day before, rather than further in advance, although Nouveau site patrons are more
likely to make the decision earlier. The different groups show a different pattern
overall:
• For Junction cinemas, both the event and the title are quite last minute and
spontaneous;
• For Classic cinemas, the timing of the event is also mostly spontaneous, but
more than average have already decided what title they would like to see;
• For Nouveau cinemas, the movie "event" is planned more in advance, but the
actual title decision comes later for many.
139
MOVIE BEHAVIOUR
100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10%
0% Total W3 Junction Classic Nouveau
Movie experience is the initial driver overall, rather than title
• Made Choice Simultaneously
Ill! Chose Movie, Then Location
II!J Wanted To Go,No Specific Movie
In the current wave a question was included regarding choice of generic activity first
versus movie title. Both play an important role, but the more general desire to go to
the cinema is stronger. Not surprisingly, Nouveau site patrons are different, with
significantly more saying they are being attracted firstly by title. We know that many
have actually reported that they decided to go to the movies a few days before, and
only selected the title at the venue, but it is likely that the typical Nouveau site patron
will opt to say that they chose the title of the film first. What is also probably
happening is that some people have a title or shortlist of titles in mind, and then on a
particular day, decide that they feel like seeing a movie. They then confirm the title
on the day, or in the queue.
140
MOVIE BEHAVIOUR
100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10%
0%
DEC!SiOhi TO
III When I GotTo The Mall Today Before I Got Here
The claimed decision-making has been cross checked:
• People who simply feel like seeing a movie and choose the title afterwards are
tending to do so quite spontaneously, on the actual day. They mostly are in
the queue before the title is finalised;
• People attracted by a film title first (i.e. they have a mental short-list), have
settled on the film title and then the activity anything from earlier that day to
within the last week;
• People unable to separate out the order of decisions can make their decisions
at any point, but primarily no more recently than the day before.
141
MOVIE BEHAVIOUR MOViE l~CTp:!nY f)EClSIOi~ V~~ "r \TLE - VVA VE 3
100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10%
0% Movie· Movie · Movie • Movie -In Movie ·
Wlen I Got Today Yesterday The last longer Ago To The Mall Before I Got WeeJt Than A v.ek
HeIo
11 Title· Today,Standing In The Queue
• Title - Today,Before I Got Here
• TiUe - Yesletday
E!I Title· Before Yesterday
When responses on timing of activity and title are compared, there is a reasonable
correlation in timing. On the whole, spontaneity of activity and film title co-exists, as
does more forward planning. This pattern tends to be consistent across the brands, as
shown on the next page.
142
MOVIE BEHAVIOUR
100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%
Movie· Movie· Movie. l.fIIen I Got Today Yesterday To The Mall Before I Got
Here
DECiSl0H i : i U:
I!II TiUe· Today,Standlng In The Queue
• TiUe· Today,8efore I Got Here
• TiUe . Yesterday
El TItle· Before Yesterday
Movie -In Movie· The Last longer Ago
lII>ek Than A \\\>ek
The type of groups attending the cinema has not shifted significantly overall,
although relatively fewer people are reporting going with friends . There are notable
differences between the brands. As a single group, friends are always most often
mentioned, but:
• At Junction cinemas, rather fewer report going with friends, a significant
proportion went alone and in family groups;
• At Classic cinemas, far more go with friends, far fewer alone, but the
proportion of family groups is about the same as for Junction cinemas;
• At Nouveau cinemas, groups of friends largely dominate.
143
MOVIE BEHAVIOUR 100% 90%
80% 70% 60% 50%
40% 30% 20%
10% 0%
Total W3 Junction
MOVIE BEHAVIOUR
Classic
ml HusbandJWife
• Partner • Children • Other Family Member IIIAlone III Friends
The average party size has increased, but not shifted greatly. It is interesting to note
that the Classic cinemas show the largest party size.
MOVIE BEHAVIOUR seERY
100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%
2 People 3 People 4 People 5·6 People
• Partner/Spouse I!!I Other Family Members I!!I Children I!!I Friends
Further analyses into party size have been included for wave 3. The graph above
compares party size with party composition. We have also investigated whether party
size varies with shifts in attendance frequency, as shown below. People going more
often or the same as before go in slightly larger groups than those going less often.
This analysis has been run across the three brands and is shown on the following
pages. In Classic and Nouveau cinemas, those people going at the same frequency as
before show a slightly larger party size.
145
MOVIE BEHAVIOUR
100% I 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10%
0% Total W3 Junction
MOVIE BEHAVIOUR
100%
90%
80% 70%
60% 50%
40%
30% 20%
10%
0% Wave 1
F'ARTY SZE BY PEhCiEVEO CHi\()UES !H ATTENDANCE H~EOUEhiCY JUNCTiUN
.10·13 People o 7·gPeople • 5·6 People 1ilI4 People 03 People
More Often About The Less Often Same
Wave 2 Wave 3
MOV!E
~ SchoollUniversitylTechnicon
[] At gym/sportlice-skatlng
• Nothing
o Studying
III Visit Family/Friends
.\lbrk
• Meal/Drink/Coffee Out
.WndowShop o Shop
imHome
Straight from home or shopping is growing - less other "night our activities precede movies
The context within which the movie activity is centred has also been explored.
Domestic and day to day activities are far more likely to precede the event than
146
before. Classic respondents are more likely to have engaged in some other activity
prior to the movie.
MOVIE BEHAVIOUR
100%
90%
80%
70% El Work
60% Iil IMndow Shop
50% D Visit FamllylFrlends
D Shop
40% I!I Meal/Drink/Coffee Out
30% ID Go Home
20%
10% 0%
Wave 1 Wave 2 Wave 3
More people are staying on for a meal or a drink or to shop
Overall, more people are not doing anything special before the movie; more are
electing to stay on for a meal or to shop. Classic respondents are far more likely to go
on to another activity, in that they tend to include the movie experience in a larger
"outing. "
147
MOVIE BEHAVIOUR
100%
• Gone to v.orkioffice 80% m Restaurant For CofteeJDrink
• Play station/games/computer
60% El Restaurant For A Meal
Il!I RNdABool<
• Stldyfng
40% I] Shopping
Watched OVDlVid ..
Socialise N. Home/Friend', Home
20%
0% Wave 1 Wave 2 Wave 3
Reduction in non movie focused home-based activities (although these still dominate!, whilst more people are choosing to still watch a movie, but at home
Respondents were asked what they would have been doing had they not come to the
movies that day. More respondents claimed that they would have partaken in some
other out-of-home activity compared to previous waves. This is far more notable
among Classic cinema respondents where they appear to be people more actively
involved in out of home entertainment, since even the movie is often centred in other
This chapter presented the findings and interpretation of the research and indicated a
slight improvement in the perception of the brand; mainly driven by the price at
Junction cinema sites. While the experience was not cited as a reason for a negative
rating, it has remained constant, if not declined as a reason for a positive rating. There
is a negative perception of staff/service at Classic cinema sites and the lack of
reserved seating has the poorest rating at Junction cinema sites. Nouveau cinema
customers rate the refreshments negatively, although this seems to be a consistent
perception. The evidence presented suggests that the concept of best practice has not
yielded the results anticipated. The key drivers of the past, convenience and product
have remained true.
164
CHAPTER 6
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
6. Introduction
In Chapter 5, the research rmding were presented and interpreted. The results
improvement is the way Ster-Kinekor is viewed by its customers, whereby it is
considered more value for money than in the past. However, the improvement
relative to the experience is insufficient to drive customers to cinema sites and hence,
location and quality of films remain key drivers. The improved value perception has
been driven by the pricing strategy implemented at various branded cinema sites. In
this concluding chapter, further commentary will be offered, as well as
recommendations given as to delivery on brand promise.
6.1. Conclusion
Chapter 1 introduced the research issues explored in the study as well as Ster
Kinekor's strategy of implementing best practice to enhance the value of the brand
and improve profitability. The concept of "Escape through Glamour" was introduced
as the interpretation of the desired positioning and by implication the way customers
should experience Ster-Kinekor.
The challenge faced by Ster-Kinekor is not unique; cinema chains across the world
share the same dilemma. Kate Kelly (2005) states that there are significant hurdles
165
being faced by an industry coming out of a difficult decade, leaving many cinema
owners seeking ways to stay relevant in an "on demand, downloadable entertainment
world." (Kelly 2005).
While many cinema chains around the world have looked at two other revenue
streams, namely, digital cinema and increased advertising and refreshments revenue,
Ster-Kinekor has opted for a third stream, namely to make the cinema-going
experience more "Glamorous." The senior management team indicated that it is
looking at the other two revenue streams as well. This present study reviews Ster
Kinekor's success to date.
In Chapter 2 the theoretical framework was introduced to support the study. The
Chapter introduced the concept of brand and brand building and highlighted the
benefits that accrue from having a brand that resonates with its consumer-base.
Toyota's TPS system was reviewed as a case in point, to relate the concept of best
practice and the impact of a brand. Ster-Kinekor has initiatives in place to ensure a
change in culture that is supportive of the strategy and introduced the self-service
terminal as its first differentiator. The company has created a platform in order to
introduce a step change and thereby differentiate itself from an experience
perspective in the entertainment competitive set. Indications are that Ster-Kinekor has
failed in this, with the exception of the introduction of self-service terminals.
In Chapter 3, the research methodology was introduced. Informal interviews with
management and intercept interviews were conducted to establish the impact of
interventions. The management dilemma of declining attendances, with no control of
the quality of content produced by Hollywood was described in detail. Ster-Kinekor's
key supplier was introduced and the brand promise "Escape through Glamour"
together with the introduction of best practice was presented as the organisations
solution.
166
Chapter 4 surveyed in brief the history of Ster-Kinekor and highlighted the origins of
the best practice strategy. The interventions defined as best practice were presented
with a commentary in regard to their effectiveness. Whist numerous initiatives were
introduced, the research findings indicate that they were insufficient to entice the
customer to make the cinema and Ster-Kinekor in particular, the preferred choice of
entertainment.
The results of the field research were presented in Chapter 5, as well as their
interpretation. The categorised research revealed an overall improvement in the value
perception of the entertainment being offered by the organisation. This was driven
primarily by the pricing of the Junction cinema sites. There were no negative ratings
of the cinema-going experience that adversely affected Ster-Kinekor as an
entertainment option.
The results of the survey suggest that although operational innovation (best practice)
improves the overall value perception, it has not directly resulted in increased
customer attendances. The benefits! experienced in improved efficiency, reduced
costs and increased catering revenue have allowed the organisation to introduce an
affordable price strategy that has the potential of increasing customer attendances. In
this context, the concept of best practice, and the resulting enhancement of the
perception of the brand have a positive influence on attendance figures and hence
profitability. This is evidenced by the research finding highlighted below.
I Based on interview with the management team.
167
MOVIE ATTENDANCE ATTENDANCE.
Q ............... __ .. __ ..... __ ........................ _ .... _ ... -........................ _._ ...... -_ ... _ .. _--....... _ .......... _. __ .............. __ ......... __ ........ ::J ...... _-_ ............. . Pricing drives increased attendance, but this is still supported by other aspects such as perceived U'!le availability, convenient and mov~ offeri':.g/experience _ .. _
Table 6.1. Movie Attendance
Ster-Kinekor does not possess a clear branding strategy. Most of the initiatives
introduced by management refer to branding elements: that is, a phased rollout of the
new logo and uniforms. The organisation also has new-look cinemas. These are
evidenced in its newly opened cinema complexes in Capegate, Cape Town; Somerset,
Western Cape and Wonderpark, Pretoria.
The concept of "Escape through Glamour" resulting in an enhanced cinema
experience, thereby yielding additional profits has yet to materialise. While a
platfortn has been created, the issue of customer service and the "Glamour" brand
positioning has as yet not been introduced as direct interventions. Investigations into
the organisation and interviews with senior management suggest that plans are being
developed and will be introduced sometime in 2006. Additionally, the operations
interventions were introduced for this purpose. Ster-Kinekor should craft a clear
168
implementation strategy on it brand position. A recommended approach is presented
in 6.2.1.
6.2. Future Research
Ster-Kinekor is, to use Kotlers phrase, at ''the expected product level." It needs to re
determine its definition and begin challenging what Kotler calls ''the augmented
product level." The research presented in this study serves to track this position and
offer insights into customer perception. It does not however present answers to the
challenges it raises. This is exactly the essence of its brand promise and customer
experience of the tangible (self-service terminals) and intangible (the experience; the
atmosphere) components of it "Glamour" brand positioning.
Anthony W. Ulwick states that his organisation Strategyn2 had spent twelve years
watching organisations obtain market research and product development, both right
and wrong. The problem as he saw it was that:
Companies ask their customers what they want. Customers offer solutions in the form of products and services. Companies then deliver these tangibles, and customers very often are not satisfied. Rather, customers should be asked only for outcomes-that is, what they want a new product or service to do for them (Ulwick 2002:91-97)
The rationale for this assertion is best expressed by Dorothy Leonard (2002) when
she states:
Customers only know what they experienced. They cannot imagine what they don't know about emergent technologies, new materials, and the like.
2 An innovation management consultancy and enterprise software firm based in Lantana, Florida, United States of America.
169
Ster-Kinekor's current approach to research is limited to tracking the progress of
innovation, whereby innovation is driven by intellectual property within the
organisation. While they may have attained success, e.g. , self service-terminals, they
are placing limits on the speed and quality of innovation.
A five step approach to uncover the desired outcome of the customer is
recommended:
1 11 HOW TO FOCUS ON OUTCOMES
~ Plan ~utcom""based customer
mterviews.
1 Step Two 11 Capture desired outcomes.
1 Step Three 11 Organise the outcomes
EJ Rate outcomes for importance and
satisfaction
EJ Use the outcomes to jumpstart the
innovation
Table 6.2. How to Focus on Outcomes [Source: Adapted
from: Greenberg and Baron (1999:13)]
170
1
1
1
6.2.1. Plan Outcome-Based Interviews
To be successful, outcome-based customer interviews must be deconstructed, step by
step, thereby revealing the underlying process or activity associated with the product
or service.
Ster-Kinekor should map the customer journey, i.e., the various touch-points with the
organisation e.g., newspaper, telephone directory, call centre, ticket desk, refreshment
counters, entry to cinema, presentation of the film, exit and bathroom facilities, and
thereby carefully select a diverse sample of customers. This sample should be
representative of the cinema population.
6.2.2. Capture the Desired Outcomes
This requires a moderator who can distinguish between outcomes and solutions and
can weed-out vague statements, anecdotes and other irrelevant information. After the
moderator captures a handful of these statements and adjectives, he or she should
translate each one into a desired outcome.
This process will help Ster-Kinekor understand the reasons behind the customer's
response to negative ratings of the cinema site in respect to poor staff/service. The
current practice relies solely upon internal input into crating strategies to overcome
this perception.
171
6.2.3. Organise the Outcomes
The outcomes must be categorised sequentially and duplicates removed. This will
help determine how customers measure value. This is Ster-Kinekor's desired
outcome.
6.2.4. Rate Outcomes for Importance and Satisfaction
A qualitative survey should be conducted in which the desired outcomes are rated by
different types of customers. Participants should be asked to rate on importance and
the degree to which the outcome is currently satisfied. This is fed into a mathematical
The value in parenthesis can never be less than zero. In other words, high levels of
satisfaction do not detract from importance. This algorithm will ensure overcoming
the limitations of gap analysis, an approach that considers only the difference
between importance and satisfaction.
6.2.5. Use the Outcomes to Jump-Start Innovation
This final step entails using the data to uncover opportunity areas for product
development, market segregation and better competitive analysis.
172
6.3. Recommendations
6.3.1. Selling the Brand inside the Organisation
In the process of understanding Ster-Kinekor's strategy, there exists a lack of
structured "selling of the brand" within the organisation. This is an area that is
neglected by most organisations. Another common shortfall or misunderstanding is
the lack of understanding that the task is about convincing employees rather that
informing employees.
According to Jim Collins (2001:13), the philosophy of "First Who ... Then what"
highlights the importance of the employing the right people in an organisation.
Collins goes on to state that:
Good-to great leaders first got the right people on the bus, the wrong people of the bus, and the right people in the right seats-and then figured out where to drive it. The old adage, "People are your most important asset" turns out wrong. People are not your most important asset. The right people are.
According to Colin Mitchell (January 2002:99), internal marketing is important. It
helps employees create an emotional connect to the product and services. It helps
them understand the promise you have made and the expectations set by the
organisations marketing. Their failure to understand may result in the employees
working against the promise to customers or they may not believe in the brand
strategy and feel alienated or work against the strategy.
Colin Mitchell (2002: 99) goes on to suggest three principles that enable employees
to "live the vision" in their day to day activities. This translates into a greater
173
likelihood that customers will experience the promise intended by the organisation.
These principles are as follows:
i. Choose Your Moment: Most people resist change. Branding and visioning are
no different. Opportune moments are when the organisation is going through a
change or experiencing a fundamental challenge. Employees at this time need
a sense of direction and are relatively receptive to these initiatives. These
moments are often create either positive or negative energy-enthusiasm for
mew programs or unproductive rumour mongering. Turning points are thus
ideal opportunities for internal branding campaigns.
ii. Link Internal and External Marketing: Employees need to hear the same
message that is sent externally to the one sent internally. Should this be
mismatched it could be very confusing, and threatens the employee's
perception of the company's integrity. Alignment enables employees to
deliver on customer expectations and to help the organisation achieve goals
that might otherwise be out of reach. In 1997, IBM launched its e-business
campaign (which is widely credited for turning the company around) and
employed "two-way branding." This strengthened internal marketing because
it drew from the same "big idea" as advertising. Consumer marketing grew
stronger because the message drew from employees' behaviour as well as the
company's strength and attitudes. The process resulted in a message that is
unique to the company. More importantly (based on Jim Collins finding
about the importance of people), the organisation can avoid creating a
message that does not resonate with staff or worse, one that build resentment.
iii. Bring the Brand Alive for Employees: The goal is to create an emotional
connection to an organisation that transcends anyone particular experience.
The employees of Ster-Kinekor should create a connection to inform the way
they approach there jobs, even if they do not interact with the customers. You
174
want them to have the brand vision in mind and to consider whether or not
they are supporting the brand vision in their minds and in every decision they
make. In thinking through the internal campaign, the executives from Ster
Kinekor should first answer some key questions: What do their employees
think of them as a company? What do the executives want the employees to
think? What will convince them of this? Why should they believe the
executive? In conclusion, Ster-Kinekor should look to the internal brand
marketing because if employees do not care about the company, and do not
find an emotional attachment, they will contribute to its demise.
6.4. Conclusion
Although Ster-Kinekor has succeeded through its implementation of best practice to
eliminate the negative experience in going to its theatres, they have not introduced
any incentive in regards to experience to further entice customers. The staid
principles of the product and convenience still hold true as the main derivers of
customer behaviour.
In the context of an increasingly competitive environment and Ster-Kinekor's lack of
control of the quality of the motion picture product, the organisation must look to
reinvent the cinema experience or the customer journey. In order to lower the barrier
of entry for new customers it has introduced the junction tier and reduced ticket
prices. The repositioning of its brand however, is limited to operational elements
and there is a need to define a branding strategy outside of this.
The potential of one additional visit per discrete customer is assumed to have been
the result of the strategy inducing people to choose Ster-Kinekor as an entertainment
option outside the current key drivers of product and convenience (proximity and
location), and should be set as a target for the organisation.
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In summary, to achieve its objectives, the organisation must ensure that the culture of
the organisation reflects the intentions of its strategy. A clear brand positioning
strategy must be crafted. Research should enter the arena of "outcomes-based"
research, rather than mere "tracking." Clear differentiators must be identified. The
implement of best practices as defined in Chapter 4 is inadequate.
176
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Aaker, A. David, Kumar, V, and Day, George, S. (1995). Marketing Research. Fifth
Edition. New York: John WHey and Sons.
Aaker, A, David. (2002). Brand Leadership. New York: The Free Press.
Axelrod, 1. N. (1968) "Attitude Measures that Predict Purchase" Journal of
Marketing Research.
Bond, Paul. (2005). "Poor films explain slump." The Hollywood Reporter, August 29.
Biel, Alexander L. (1992). "The Essentials of Brands."
I Research Questionnaire commissioned by Ster-Kinekor (Pty) Ltd and conducted by YeIlowwood Brand Architects, 189 Witkoppen Road, Waterford Drive, Waterford Office Park, 8 Technology House, Ground Floor, Fourways, 2055.
181
Query Omissions Checkback Date Initials F-T-F Phone Interviewer No.
Field
Coding ..........................
Respondent No .
..... ........... .. .... ....
Debriefed by: Coding checked by:
Edited by: Consistency checked by:
Coded by: Editing checked by:
Please give me your name, address and the Gee asseblief vir my jou naam, adres en
exact suburb, town and province in which you presiese voorstad en dorp waarinjy woon, selfs
live, even if there is no normal postal delivery al word daar nie gewoonlik pos afgelewer nie.
there. ENSURE THAT SPELLING OF MAAK SEKER DAT SPELLING VAN
SUBURB AND TOWN IS CORRECT. VOORSTAD EN DORP REG IS.
Name of respondent IoNa am van respondent: _____________ _